Modification Approach Research Articles

Innovative Diagnosis and Therapeutic Modalities: Engineered Exosomes in Autoimmune Disease.

Autoimmune diseases refer to a group of conditions where the immune system produces an immune response against self-antigens, resulting in tissue damage. These diseases have profound impacts on the health of patients. In recent years, with the rapid development in the field of biomedicine, engineered exosomes have emerged as a noteworthy class of biogenic nanoparticles. By precisely manipulating the cargo and surface markers of exosomes, engineered exosomes have gained enhanced anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and tissue reparative abilities, providing new prospects for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Engineered exosomes not only facilitate the efficient delivery of bioactive molecules including nucleic acids, proteins, and cytokines, but also possess the capability to modulate immune cell functions, suppress inflammation, and restore immune homeostasis. This review mainly focuses on the applications of engineered exosomes in several typical autoimmune diseases. Additionally, this article comprehensively summarizes the current approaches for modification and engineering of exosomes and outlines their prospects in clinical applications. In conclusion, engineered exosomes, as an innovative therapeutic approach, hold promise for the management of autoimmune diseases. However, while significant progress has been made, further rigorous research is still needed to address the challenges that engineered exosomes may encounter in the therapeutic intervention process, in order to facilitate their successful translation into clinical practice and ultimately benefit a broader population of patients.

Synergistic effects of silane‐modified carbon black and nano‐silica hybrid fillers on the performance of natural rubber compounds

AbstractThis study investigates the efficiency of already developed surface‐modified carbon black (CB), both independently and in conjunction with nano‐silica, as a hybrid filler, to the properties of natural rubber (NR) compounds. The modification process, followed by coupling agent treatment, enhanced cross‐link density and curing characteristics, though the inclusion of nano‐silica alone negatively affected curing due to its inherent polarity and tendency to agglomerate. The filled compounds with modified CB exhibited significant improvements in mechanical properties, notably tear resistance. Moreover, the combination of nano‐silica with modified CB yielded compounds with superior tear resistance, attributed to synergistic effects. CB surface modification exhibited varying effects on the glass transition temperature, with enhancements observed in tan δ at lower temperatures, indicating improved ice and wet grip potential. Also, it reduced rolling resistance after treatment with a coupling agent. While thermal stability remained consistent across the studied compounds, swelling resistance varies with filler type and ratio. Thermodynamic analysis confirmed the positive impact of CB surface modification on the elasticity and chain mobility of the investigated rubber compounds. It was concluded that the strategic selection of fillers and modification approaches were essential for achieving optimal results in the rubber compound's performance and application.

Semirational Design Strategy To Enhance the Thermostability and Catalytic Activity of Cytochrome P450 105D7 for the Degradation of the Pharmaceutically Active Compounds: Diclofenac.

Pharmaceutically active compounds are an important category of emerging pollutants, and their biological transformation processes in the environment are crucial for understanding and evaluating the migration, transformation, and environmental fate of emerging pollutants. The cytochrome P450 105 enzyme family has been proven to play an important role in the degradation of exogenous environmental pollutants. However, its thermostability and catalytic activity still need to be improved to better adapt to complex environmental conditions. This work elucidates the key mechanisms and important residues of the degradation reaction through multiple computational strategies, establishes a mutation library, and obtains 21 single-point mutation designs. Experimental verification showed that 16 single mutants had enhanced thermostability, with the R89F and L197Y mutants showing the highest increases in thermostability at 135 and 119% relative to the wild-type enzyme, respectively. Additionally, as a result of the higher specific activity of D390Q, it was selected for combination mutagenesis, ultimately resulting in three combination mutants (R89F/L197Y, R89F/D390Q, and R89F/L197Y/D390Q) with enhanced thermostability and catalytic activity. This study provides a modification approach for constructing efficient enzyme variants through semirational design and can contribute to the development of control technologies for emerging pollutants.

One-Pot Synthesis of Alkyl Functionalized Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposites as the Lubrication Additive Enabling Enhanced Tribological Performance

Recently, aiming for the enhanced dispersibility of graphene-based nanomaterials in lubricating oil matrices to serve as highly efficient lubricant additives, numerous modification approaches have been extensively studied. However, these previous modification routes usually involve a tedious multistep modification process or multitudinous toxic reagents, restricting their extensive practical application. In this work, novel graphene oxide (GO) nanoadditives (RGO-g-BO) featuring excellent durable dispersion capability and remarkable tribological performance were successfully prepared via an environmentally friendly one-step approach consisting of surface grafting of long-chain bromooctadecane (BO) and in situ chemical reduction. Benefiting from the greatly improved lipophilicity (resulting from the introduction of hydrophobic long-chain alkane groups and chemical reduction), along with the miniaturization effect, RGO-g-BO exhibits superior long-term dispersion stability in the finished oil. Moreover, the tribological properties results demonstrated that the finished oil filled with RGO-g-BO nanolubricants achieved an outstanding friction-reducing and antiwear performance. Particularly, under the optimum content of RGO-g-BO (as low as 0.005 wt%), the friction coefficient as well as the wear volume of the composite finished oil were greatly reduced by 13% and 53%, respectively, as compared with nascent finished oil. Therefore, in view of the advantages of low-cost, one-step facile synthesis, desirable dispersion capability, and remarkable tribological performance, RGO-g-BO holds great prospects as a highly efficient lubrication additive in the tribology field.

A facile strategy to fabricate low viscosity and high cold tack soy protein-based adhesive for particleboard production

The utilization of soy protein as a wood adhesive has been successfully implemented in the industrial production of plywood. However, it is still a significant challenge to directly utilize soy protein-based adhesive for the fabrication of particleboard owing to its high viscosity and low cold tack. In this study, polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) emulsion was used to modify soy protein-based adhesive to reduce its viscosity and enhance its cold tack. By incorporating a content of 30% PVAc emulsion, the viscosity of the adhesive was reduced to 880 mPa·s, which was much lower than the pure soy protein-based adhesive value. Simultaneously, the cold tack was significantly increased by nearly 500 times after the addition of PVAc. The obtained adhesives met the requirements for particleboard production. In addition, the internal bonding strength of the produced particleboard reached 0.7 MPa, significantly exceeding the requirements for P6-grade particleboards (≥ 0.40 MPa, GB/T4897–2015). Moreover, it exhibited no formaldehyde emissions, making it a high-quality particleboard suitable for furniture applications. This study successfully presents a soy protein-based adhesive suitable for particleboard production using a simple blending modification approach, thereby expanding the application scope of soy protein-based adhesives.

Fe-TiO2-x/TiO2 S-scheme homojunction for efficient photocatalytic CO2 reduction

CO2-to-high value-added chemicals via a photocatalytic route is of interest but strangled by the low efficiency. Herein, a novel Fe-TiO2-x/TiO2 S-scheme homojunction was designed and constructed by using a facile surface modification approach whereby oxygen vacancy (OV) and Fe introducing on the TiO2 nanorod surface. The as-synthesized Fe-TiO2-x/TiO2 S-scheme homojunction exhibits positive properties on promoting photocatalytic CO2 reduction: i) the nanorod structure provides numerous active sites and a radical charge transfer path; ii) the doped Fe and OV not only synergistically enhance light utilization but also promote CO2 adsorption; iii) the Fe-TiO2-x/TiO2 S-scheme homojunction benefits photoexcited charge separation and retains stronger redox capacity. Thanks to those good characters, the Fe-TiO2-x/TiO2 homojunction exhibits superior CO2 reduction performances with optimized CO/CH4 generation rates of 122/22 μmol g-1h−1 which exceed those of pure TiO2 by more than 9.4/7.3 folds and most currently reported catalytic systems. This manuscript develops a facile and universal approach to synthesize well-defined homojunction and may inspire the construction of other more high-efficiency photocatalysts toward CO2 reduction and beyond.

Effect of dual modifications with ultrasonication and succinylation on Cicer arietinum protein-iron complexes: Characterization, digestibility, in-vitro cellular mineral uptake and preparation of fortified smoothie

The research aimed to evaluate the effect of ultrasonication and succinylation on the functional, iron binding, physiochemical, and cellular mineral uptake efficacy of chickpea protein concentrate. Succinylation resulted in significant improvements in the water-holding capacity (WHC) (25.47 %), oil-holding capacity (OHC) (31.38 %), and solubility (5.80 %) of the chickpea protein-iron complex. Mineral bioavailability significantly increased by 4.41 %, and there was a significant increase in cellular mineral uptake (64.64 %), retention (36.68 %), and transport (27.96 %). The ferritin content of the succinylated chickpea protein-iron complex showed a substantial increase of 66.31%. Furthermore, the dual modification approach combining ultrasonication and succinylation reduced the particle size of the protein-iron complex with a substantial reduction of 83.25 %. It also resulted in a significant enhancement of 51.5 % in the SH (sulfhydryl) content and 48.92 % in the surface hydrophobicity. Mineral bioavailability and cellular mineral uptake, retention, and transport were further enhanced through dual modification. In terms of application, the addition of single and dual-modified chickpea protein-iron complex to a fruit-based smoothie demonstrated positive acceptance in sensory attributes. Overall, the combined approach of succinylation and ultrasonication to the chickpea protein-iron complex shows a promising strategy for enhancing the physiochemical and techno-functional characteristics, cellular mineral uptake, and the development of vegan food products.

Biomimetic approach in surface modification for improvement in the mechanical properties of implements

Biomimetic approach in surface modification for improvement in the mechanical properties of implements

Peculiarities of nutrition of patients with metabolic syndrome in the aspect of treatment and prevention

The hallmark of metabolic syndrome (MS) is the associated risks of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, as well as other harmful conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, etc. In this article, we would like to highlight the available scientific evidence on the relationship between lifestyle changes and MS and its components in order to obtain recommendations for the prevention and treatment of MS. Body weight (BW) reduction through calorie-restricted diets, along with increased energy expenditure through physical activity, has been shown to aid in the prevention and treatment of MS. A Mediterranean diet with or without calorie restriction is an effective component of treatment. Due to the increased consumption of unsaturated fats, primarily from olive oil, and to emphasize the consumption of legumes, cereals (whole grains), fruits, vegetables, nuts, fish and low- fat dairy products, as well as moderate alcohol consumption. Other dietary patterns (DASH, Scandinavian and vegetarian diets) have also been suggested as alternatives for the treatment and prevention of MS. A mandatory condition is to stop smoking and reduce the consumption of sweetened beverages. These approaches are not effective in all patients, and more research is needed to determine the most appropriate therapy for MS. In summary, a healthy lifestyle is critical for preventing or delaying the onset of MS in susceptible individuals and preventing cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes in those who already have MS. The recommendations provided in this article should help patients and physicians understand and implement the most effective lifestyle modification approaches to prevent metabolic syndrome and improve cardiometabolic status.

Modification of amino functionalized silica nanoparticles with L-proline and furanacrylic acid as novel composites for the efficient removal of methyl orange

The present study deals with the preparation of new composites in which L-proline (LP) and furnacrylic acid (FA) have been grafted on surface of amino functionalized silica nanoparticles (AFS). At first, AFS were prepared by sol-gel approach using tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) as silica source and aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) as silica modifiers. Taking the advantage of amino group on AFS surface, LP and FA were easily grafted on silica surface to obtain LP grafted silica (AFS-LP) and FA grafted silica (AFS-FA) nanocomposites by post modification approach. As prepared composites were characterized by FTIR, SEM, XRD and TGA. The evidence of LP and FA on AFS was elucidated from the FTIR bands found at 1650–1698 cm−1 related to carbonyl group CO) of amide. Additionally, peaks observed at 2965 cm−1 (C-H stretching) of propyl groups and at 1050 cm−1 (Si-O-Si) indicated that the backbone of the material is preserved as silica. The micro images of SEM depicted that the AFS are spherical in shape and have more degree of monodispersivity whereas the SEM images of composites (AFS-LP and AFS-FA) have larger particle size and less degree of monodispersivity. Likewise, XRD peaks at 2θ (∼12°) revealed the mesoporosity of silica as well as hybrid silica and further depression in this peak in case of AFS-LP and AFS-FA depicted the existence of organic moieties on silica. TGA analysis depicted three decomposition steps (high weight loss) in case of AFS-LP and AFS-FA in contrast to two decomposition steps observed in case of AFS. The higher weight loss observed in the case of hybrid composites depicted the grafting of organic molecules on AFS. The prepared composites AFS-LP and AFS-FA were deployed to investigate their adsorption capacity to remove methyl orange (MO) from aqueous media. Experiments revealed that the composites have high adsorption capacity in acidic media (pH=2) with % removal of 85.05 % for AFS-LP and 81.70 % for AFS-FA. The experimental data was evaluated for adsorption isotherms and value of correlation factor (R2) was close to unity in case of Freundlich representing that the adsorption follows Freundlich isotherm. The data was also evaluated for kinetic models and higher values of R2 as well as closeness of experimental and calculated values of Qe predicted that adsorption of MO followed pseudo-second order kinetic model.

Enhanced Hemocompatibility and Cytocompatibility of Stainless Steel.

The present study introduces an advanced surface modification approach combining electrochemical anodization and non-thermal plasma treatment, tailored for biomedical applications on stainless steel grade 316L (SS316L) surfaces. Nanopores with various diameters (100-300 nm) were synthesized with electrochemical anodization, and samples were further modified with non-thermal oxygen plasma. The surface properties of SS316L surfaces were examined by scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, X-ray photoemission spectroscopy, and Water contact angle measurements. It has been shown that a combination of electrochemical anodization and plasma treatment significantly alters the surface properties of SS316L and affects its interactions with blood platelets and human coronary cells. Optimal performance is attained on the anodized specimen featuring pores within the 150-300 nm diameter range, subjected to subsequent oxygen plasma treatment; the absence of platelet adhesion was observed. At the same time, the sample demonstrated good endothelialization and a reduction in smooth muscle cell adhesion compared to the untreated SS316L and the sample with smaller pores (100-150 nm). This novel surface modification strategy has significant implications for improving biocompatibility and performance of SS316L in biomedical applications.

Key structural requirements of benzamide derivatives for histone deacetylase inhibition: design, synthesis and biological evaluation.

Background: Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACIs) are important as anticancer agents. Objective: This study aimed to investigate some key structural features of HDACIs viathedesign, synthesisand biological evaluation of novel benzamide-based derivatives. Methods: Novel structures, designed using amolecular modification approach, were synthesized and biologically evaluated. Results: The results indicated that asubset of molecules with CH3/NH2 at R2 position possessselective antiproliferative activity. However, only those with an NH2 group showed HDACI activity. Importantly, the shorter the molecule length, the stronger HDACI. Among all, 7j was the most potent HDAC1-3 inhibitor and antiproliferative compound. Conclusion: The results of the present investigation couldprovide valuable structural knowledge applicable for the development of the HDACIs and benzamide-based antiproliferative agents in the future.

Unlocking Heavy Metal Remediation Potential: A Review of Cellulose–Silica Composites

This comprehensive review explores recent advancements in heavy metal remediation techniques, focusing on the utilization of cellulose–silica composites and tailored surface modification techniques. We examine the synthesis strategies and properties of cellulose–silica adsorbents, highlighting their enhanced adsorption capacities and structural robustness for removing heavy metal pollutants from aqueous environments. The review investigates various surface modification approaches, including thiol functionalization, amino acid grafting, and silane coupling agents, for optimizing the surface chemistry and morphology of cellulose–silica composites. Mechanistic insights into the adsorption processes and kinetics of modified adsorbents are discussed, along with considerations for optimizing adsorption performance under different environmental conditions. This review provides valuable perspectives on the development of effective adsorbent materials for sustainable heavy metal remediation applications.

Intensifying electrified flow-through water treatment technologies via local environment modification

Removing high-risk and persistent contaminants from water is challenging, because they typically exist at low concentrations in complex water matrices. Electrified flow-through technologies are viable to overcome the limitations induced by mass transport for efficient contaminant removal. Modifying the local environment of the flow-through electrodes offers opportunities to further improve the reaction kinetics and selectivity for achieving near-complete removal of these contaminants from water. Here, we present state-of-the-art local environment modification approaches that can be incorporated into electrified flow-through technologies to intensify water treatment. We first show methods of nanospace incorporation, local geometry adjustment, and microporous structure optimization that can induce spatial confinement, enhanced local electric field, and microperiodic vortex, respectively, for local environment modification. We then discuss why local environment modification can complement the flow-through electrodes for improving the reaction rate and selectivity. Finally, we outline appropriate scenarios of intensifying electrified flow-through technologies through local environment modification for fit-for-purpose water treatment applications.

Dual modification engineering enabled efficient perovskite solar cells with high open-voltage of 1.233 V

Interface engineering take as a crucial role in enhancing the performance of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Here, we propose a comprehensive strategy to improve the performance and stability of PSCs through dual-interface modification approach. This strategy involves simultaneously introducing lead-free Cs3MnBr5: Ce3+ nanocrystals (NCs) between SnO2 electron transport layer and the perovskite layer, as well as 1H,1H-Perfluorooctylamine iodide (PFOAI) at the interface between perovskite and Spiro-OMeTAD hole transport layer. Firstly, we successfully prepare Cs3MnBr5: Ce3+ NCs, which exhibits an extensive ultraviolet response and effective blue photoluminescence. The photoluminescence quantum yield of Cs3MnBr5: Ce3+ NCs can reach 90 %, demonstrating efficient photon down-conversion ability and efficient defect passivation. Simultaneously, the organic halide salt PFOAI with super-hydrophobic properties efficiently passivates defects on the surface of perovskite and improves moisture-resistance of perovskite films. Taking advantage of these synergistic effects, we achieve efficient PSCs based the Cs0.05(FA0.83MA0.17)0.95Pb(I0.83Br0.17)3 and Cs0.05(FA0.95MA0.05)0.95Pb(I0.95Br0.05)3 with power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 23.88 % and 24.24 %. We also achieved an ultrahigh open-circuit voltage (VOC) of 1.233 V, which represents one of the highest VOC values in a perovskite film with a bandgap of ∼1.60 eV. Additionally, the non-encapsulated double-interface modified PSCs exhibit long time, light and humidity stability. This study explores a novel and comprehensive strategy for manufacturing PSCs with high VOC, high PCE, and good stability.

Enhancing electrochemiluminescence intensity through emission layer control

Electrochemiluminescence (ECL), an intriguing luminescent phenomenon induced by electrochemical stimulation, has evolved from studying electron transfer reactions to a powerful analytical method and imaging technique. ECL can be generated through annihilation or co-reactant methods, with recent advancements integrating it into imaging devices for diverse applications. This review traces the evolution of ECL from its early applications to recent developments in imaging technology. Notably, the utilization of charge-coupled devices (CCD) and electron multiplying charge-coupled devices (EMCCD) in ECL microscopy has revolutionized imaging capabilities, making it a cost-effective option for point-of-care testing. The review explores the heterogeneous ECL mechanism, emphasizing its limitations and challenges in visualizing objects away from the electrode surface. The synergy between ECL and microscopy is highlighted, showcasing its diverse applications and contributions to understanding ECL mechanisms and improving its use in biological contexts. Finally, the review encapsulates innovative approaches in material design, surface modification, and electrode architecture, providing a comprehensive overview of strategies to control the active layer of the ECL and advance ECL microscopy.

Pd nanocubes enclosed by {100} facets for activating electroless Cu deposition on liquid crystal polymer substrates with strong adhesion strength

In this study, we investigate the catalytic performance of palladium (Pd) nanocatalysts with different surface atomic structures for activating electroless copper (Cu) deposition on liquid crystal polymer (LCP) substrates. These nanocatalysts include Pd nanocubes featuring {100} facets of square atomic arrangement as their predominant surface structure and Pd spherical nanoparticles characterized by random atomic arrangements, synthesized using an aqueous method. Our electrochemical measurements reveal that the induction time for the growth of Cu films is significantly shorter when utilizing Pd nanocubes compared to Pd nanospheres. This shorter induction time signifies a quicker initiation of Cu growth, primarily due to the presence of Pd {100} facets. Furthermore, we also develop a surface modification approach involving a crosslinking reaction that utilizes the highly branched polyethylenimine and linear polyvinylpyrrolidone on the Pd nanocubes. This method not only facilitates the adsorption of Pd nanocubes onto the LCP substrates but also achieves a robust peel adhesion strength (630 gf/cm) of the resulting Cu films, exceeding the industrial adhesion goal of 500 gf/cm. Moreover, in-depth synchrotron X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis provides valuable insights into the depth-dependent chemical changes within the Cu films and proves the removal of Cu oxides after the acid treatment.

Evaluation of High-Performance Polyether Ether Ketone Polymer Treated with Piranha Solution and Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate Coating.

Dental implantation has become a standard procedure with high success rates, relying on achieving osseointegration between the implant surface and surrounding bone tissue. Polyether ether ketone (PEEK) is a promising alternative to traditional dental implant materials like titanium, but its osseointegration capabilities are limited due to its hydrophobic nature and reduced surface roughness. The aim of the study is to increase the surface roughness and hydrophilicity of PEEK by treating the surface with piranha solution and then coating the surface with epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) by electrospraying technique. The study includes four groups intended to investigate the effect of piranha treatment and EGCG coating: a control group of PEEK discs with no treatment (C), PEEK samples treated with piranha solution (P), a group of PEEK samples coated with EGCG (E), and a group of PEEK samples treated with piranha solution and coated with EGCG (PE). Surface roughness, wettability, and microhardness were assessed through statistical analysis. Piranha treatment increased surface roughness, while EGCG coating moderated it, resulting in an intermediate roughness in the PE group. EGCG significantly improved wettability, as indicated by the reduced contact angle. Microhardness increased by about 20% in EGCG-coated groups compared to noncoated groups. Statistical analysis confirmed significant differences between groups in all tests. This study demonstrates the potential of EGCG coating to enhance the surface properties of PEEK as dental implants. The combined piranha and EGCG modification approach shows promise for improved osseointegration, although further vivo research is necessary. Surface modification techniques hold the key to optimizing biomaterial performance, bridging the gap between laboratory findings and clinical implementation in dental implantology.

Precision Interface Engineering of CuNi Alloys by Powder ALD Toward Better Thermoelectric Performance

AbstractThe main bottleneck in obtaining high‐performance thermoelectric (TE) materials is identified as how to decouple the strong interrelationship between electrical and thermal parameters. Herein, a precise interface modification approach based on the powder atomic layer deposition (ALD) technology is presented to enhance the performance of CuNi alloys. ZnO and Al2O3 layers as well as their combinations are deposited on the surface of powders, typically in 10–100 ALD cycles, and their effects on the TE performance of bulks is thoroughly investigated. The enhancement of the Seebeck coefficient, caused by the energy filtering effect, compensates for the electrical conductivity deterioration due to the low electrical conductivity of oxide layers. Furthermore, the oxide layers may significantly increase the phonon scattering. Therefore, to reduce the resistivity of coating layer, a multilayer structure is deposited on the surface of powders by inserting Al2O3 into ZnO. The accurate microstructure characterization shows that the Al atoms diffused into ZnO and realized the doping effect after pressing. Al diffusion has the potential to increase the electrical conductivity and complexity of coating layers. Compared to pure CuNi, zT increases by 128% due to the decrease in resistivity and stronger phonon scattering in phase boundaries.

Enhancing efficiency and stability of perovskite solar cells through methoxyamine hydrochloride modified SnO2 electron transport layer

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) hold promise for future photovoltaic applications due to their high performance, low cost, and simple fabrication. The electron transport layer (ETL) plays a crucial role in PSC performance, and tin dioxide (SnO2) has gained attention as a promising ETL candidate. In this study, we investigate the use of methoxyamine hydrochloride (MOACl) as a modifier for SnO2 ETLs in PSCs. MOACl improves the film quality of SnO2, resulting in improved electrical conductivity and electron mobility. MOACl also enhances perovskite crystallization, promoting the growth of larger grain sizes and more uniform film morphology. The enhanced hydrogen bond and migration of Cl within the perovskite layer aids in optimal crystallization and significantly boosts the overall PCE of the cells from 21.67 % to 24.34 %. Moreover, MOACl-SnO2 PSCs demonstrate excellent long-term stability, retaining over 80 % of their initial efficiency after 50 days in ambient air. This work highlights the practical and effective approach of MOACl modification for controlling SnO2 defects and improving perovskite crystallization, paving the way for the development of efficient and stable PSCs.