Field Of Nanotechnology Research Articles

Toward a Green Chemistry Approach for the Functionalization of Melamine Foams with Silver Nanoparticles

AbstractThe growing popularity of silver nanoparticles in the field of nanotechnology has created the necessity of developing new sustainable synthesis methods. This study presents a new green in situ functionalization method of melamine foams with silver nanoparticles. The synthesis pathway and the influence of the processing parameters are optimized to phase out 100% of polluting and dangerous solvents while maximizing silver transfer. A deep study of the morphological and chemical changes of the synthesized silver nanoparticles successfully demonstrated that water can be used as the only solvent for obtaining active melamine foams with potential application in multiple fields. Results showed that rising reaction temperatures from environmental to mild conditions (40 °C and 60 °C) is crucial for obtaining high functionalization yields with this green method. Following the optimum fabrication conditions using only water, highly functionalized melamine foams showed a great amount of ultrafine silver nanoparticles distributed over the porous structure.

Nanotechnology, Water Remediation and Sustainability- A Far-Reaching Review and a Broad Scientific and Technological Perspective

The world of science and engineering of sustainability and nanotechnology are in today’s scientific fabric are in the aisles of newer scientific divination. Environmental, energy and socio-economic sustainability are the utmost needs of the hour. In the similar vision, nanotechnology needs to be aligned with diverse areas of natural sciences, applied sciences and engineering sciences. The definition of “sustainability” as described by Dr Gro Harlem Brundtland, former Prime Minister of Norway needs to be re-envisioned, rethought and rejuvenated with the passage of scientific history and time. Human struggles, human scientific and engineering challenges and human impact needs to be rethought as environmental protection and environmental disasters are in the path of immense scientific contemplation. In this paper, the author deeply discusses with verve and validation the integration of nanotechnology and sustainability. Human race today stands in the middle of deep scientific disaster and also scientific contemplation. Loss of ecological biodiversity and frequent environmental disasters are urging the scientific and engineering community to move towards newer scientific innovations and newer environmental engineering tools. Thus the need of a comprehensive treatise in the field of nanotechnology and sustainable development. Nanotechnology has vast and varied applications in the field of environmental pollution control. The author deeply targets these areas of scientific and engineering research endeavor. A newer era in the field of nanotechnology, nano-engineering and sustainability will surely usher in if a concerted effort is taken in the proper implementation of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the vision of Brundtland Commission Report. A new generation of scientists and engineers will move towards positive research directions if man and mankind innovates and envisions the basics and fundamentals of environmental engineering science, chemical process engineering, sustainable engineering and nanotechnology.

Metal-triggered disassembly of Naph-Ahx-His supramolecular nanoribbons

Self-assembly is the process where molecules in solution can spontaneously interact with one another via multiple noncovalent interactions and produce high ordered structures at the nanometer level. These structures can be further developed as functional materials in the fields of nanotechnology and engineering. In this work, we introduce a new type of amphiphilic molecule, Naph-Ahx-His, capable of self-assembling into stable nanoribbons in a buffered aqueous solution as characterized by TEM and GIXRD. The hydrophobic nature of the naphthoic ring and the 6-carbon linker coupled with the hydrophilic histidine residue, drives this molecule to initially form amorphous aggregates that reorganize into a ordered nanoribbon structures. These assemblies are crystalline in nature and stable in solution for weeks. Due to the presence of the metal chelator histidine, this molecule is able to disassemble in the presence of high concentration of copper over other divalent metal such as zinc and nickel. DFT computational studies were performed with truncated versions of the Naph-Ahx-His molecule to help explain the binding affinity preference for copper and its rapid disassembly in aqueous solution. All these findings highlight the potential of Naph-Ahx-His nanoribbons as metal-triggered nanomaterials for broader applications in metal and analyte detection.

Comparative Analysis of Mitoxantrone and Doxorubicin Interactions with Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Using Molecular Dynamics Simulations

Cancer remains a significant global health concern, responsible for numerous deaths worldwide. Common treatment methods include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, as well as biological therapies, and targeted therapies. The field of nanotechnology has made remarkable advancements in drug delivery systems, enabling improved drug penetration and direct delivery to specific areas. These systems, known as drug delivery systems (DDSs), aim to enhance drug efficacy and safety by controlling release rate, timing, and targeted location within the body. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have emerged as promising materials for DDSs due to their ability to target specific sites and regulate molecule release. Mitoxantrone (MTX) and doxorubicin (DOX) are widely used chemotherapy drugs. This study uses molecular dynamics simulations to compare the interactions between these drugs and single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). The simulation process was performed using BIOVA Materials Studio. The adsorption process of these drugs was observed in a non-aqueous simulation box to evaluate their compatibility with nanocarriers for biomedical applications. In addition, the interaction energies between drugs and nanotubes were investigated. The results indicated positively energetic interactions between anti-cancer drugs and SWCNTs, driven by π-π interactions and substantial interaction energies. While both mitoxantrone and doxorubicin effectively interacted with SWCNTs, doxorubicin demonstrated more efficient interaction.

Enhanced salinity tolerance in Alfalfa through foliar nano-zinc oxide application: Mechanistic insights and potential agricultural applications

The field of nanoscience and nanotechnology has experienced rapid advancements, leading to the widespread utilization of zinc oxide nanoparticles (nano-ZnO) owing to their distinct physical and chemical properties. However, till date the comparative role of nano and bulk ZnO in the salt stress regulation in alfalfa is remained largely unaddressed. In this study, nano and bulk ZnO at 25 and 50 mg L−1 were sprayed on alfalfa which was subjected to three levels of salinity; S0, S50, and S100 (NaCl) mg kg−1 of soil. Nano-ZnO at 50 mg L−1 significantly enhanced the shoot and root growth by 29% and 28.4% respectively. The increased alfalfa growth and development could be associated with the regulatory effects of nano-ZnO, including photosynthesis, antioxidant enzyme activities and relative water content. Additionally, foliar application of nano-ZnO 50 mg L−1 in alfalfa dramatically up-regulated the levels of osmolytes (proline, total soluble sugar, and total soluble protein) by 36%, 61% and 32% respectively, leading towards better alfalfa salinity tolerance. The absorption and translocation of ZnO studied by TEM images indicated that nano-ZnO was mainly located in vacuoles and chloroplasts. These results provide noteworthy information for a mechanistic understanding of the biological impact of nano-ZnO on plant physiology and metabolism; this understanding paves the way for the judicious implementation of nanoparticles in agriculture.

Entering a New Agricultural Era through the Impact of Nano-Fertilizers on Crop Development: A Review

The dynamic interface between nanotechnology and agriculture heralds a new era in food production, with nano-fertilizers standing at the forefront of this revolution. These fertilizers, leveraging the unique properties of nanoparticles, promise to address several challenges posed by traditional fertilization methods, including nutrient wastage, environmental pollution, and inconsistent yields. Preliminary studies indicate that nano-fertilizers can enhance nutrient uptake, allowing for direct and efficient nutrient transfer to plant cells, leading to improved crop yields. Their targeted delivery mechanisms mitigate nutrient loss through leaching, presenting a more environmentally friendly alternative. Yet, alongside these potential benefits, the introduction of nanoparticles into agriculture poses significant challenges. There are growing concerns regarding their long-term environmental impact, specifically the accumulation of nanoparticles in various ecosystems and the subsequent implications for flora and fauna. Potential health risks for both consumers and farm workers also warrant in-depth research, with questions arising about the bioaccumulation of nanoparticles in plants and their subsequent effects when consumed. The possibility of the emergence of nanoparticle-resistant pests, mirroring the historical challenges with pesticide-resistant strains, adds another layer of complexity to the narrative. Policymakers face the intricate task of creating dynamic regulatory frameworks. These need to facilitate the advancement and adoption of nano-fertilizers while ensuring the safety of both the environment and consumers. Such frameworks should be predicated on robust scientific research, encompassing not just immediate crop yield outcomes but broader ecological, health, and socio-economic impacts. Looking ahead, as the field of nanotechnology continues to evolve rapidly, the agricultural sector stands at a pivotal juncture. Embracing the advantages of nano-fertilizers could fundamentally reshape farming practices, driving them towards greater sustainability and efficiency. This transition needs to be navigated with a clear vision, grounded in rigorous scientific inquiry and underpinned by comprehensive policies, to ensure that the agriculture of tomorrow is both bountiful and sustainable.

Protein-Based Nanocarriers and Nanotherapeutics for Infection and Inflammation.

Infectious and inflammatory diseases are one of the leading causes of death globally. The status quo has become more prominent with the onset of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. To combat these potential crises, proteins have been proven as highly efficacious drugs, drug targets, and biomarkers. On the other hand, advancements in nanotechnology have aided efficient and sustained drug delivery due to their nano-dimension-acquired advantages. Combining both strategies together, the protein nanoplatforms are equipped with the advantageous intrinsic properties of proteins as well as nanoformulations, eloquently changing the field of nanomedicine. Proteins can act as carriers, therapeutics, diagnostics, and theranostics in their nanoform as fusion proteins or as composites with other organic/inorganic materials. Protein-based nanoplatforms have been extensively explored to target the major infectious and inflammatory diseases of clinical concern. The current review comprehensively deliberated proteins as nanocarriers for drugs and nanotherapeutics for inflammatory and infectious agents, with special emphasis on cancer and viral diseases. A plethora of proteins from diverse organisms have aided in the synthesis of protein-based nanoformulations. The current study specifically presented the proteins of human and pathogenic origin to dwell upon the field of protein nanotechnology, emphasizing their pharmacological advantages. Further, the successful clinical translation and current bottlenecks of the protein-based nanoformulations associated with the infection-inflammation paradigm have also been discussed comprehensively. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This review discusses the plethora of promising protein-based nanocarriers and nanotherapeutics explored for infectious and inflammatory ailments, with particular emphasis on protein nanoparticles of human and pathogenic origin with reference to the advantages, ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion parameters), and current bottlenecks in development of protein-based nanotherapeutic interventions.

Nanotechnology and Food System: Assessing the European Union Regulatory System

Over the last twenty years, the field of nanotechnologies has been affected by enormous investments in research and innovation all over the world. Proponents of nanotechnology praise their benefits; however, the risks may far outweigh the purported benefits. In the agri-food sector, many nano innovations have been introduced so far. Nevertheless, within the European Union (EU), the accelerated rate of innovation has not been met by adequate regulatory interventions. The study provides an assessment of the current EU food nanotechnology regulatory framework using the classical five benchmarks for defining a “good regulation.” The results of the assessment highlight that technical-scientific and economic considerations, which refer to the expertise and efficiency criteria, have been largely used by European policymakers. Criteria of legislative authority, accountability, and due process have been largely overlooked, which may explain the inadequateness of the regulatory effort. The study offers useful insights for understanding and improving the EU regulatory process in the field of nanotechnology.

Review on carbon dots: Synthesis and application in biology field

AbstractAs a multifunctional fluorescent nanomaterial, carbon dots (CDs) not only have small size, stable chemical properties, excellent photoluminescence characteristics, but also exhibit good biocompatibility and low toxicity. It has attracted considerable attention in the field of nanotechnology and biological science. CDs contain abundant functional groups on the surface, which not only retain part of the properties of raw materials, but also may have new photoelectric, catalytic, biomedical, and other functions. In this review, we systematically summarize the synthesis methods, modifications, optical properties, and main biological functions of CDs in recent years. The application of functionalized modified CDs in biological detection, biological imaging, photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, targeted therapy, drug delivery, gene delivery, protein delivery, and other biomedical fields is introduced. The latest progress of CDs with its own biomedical function in antioxidant, anti‐pathogen, and disease treatment is summarized. Finally, we discuss some problems in the practical application of CDs and look forward to the future development trend of self‐functional CDs combined with surface modification to achieve multimodal treatment of diseases.

Changes in the Structure and Properties of Silicon Carbide under Gamma Irradiation

The paper presents the results of comprehensive study of SiC samples, which is one of the most promising materials in the field of semiconductor nanotechnology. The identification and qualitative analysis of a SiC sample was carried out by Raman spectroscopy using an In Via Raman spectrometer. Based on the spectrogram of X-ray phase analysis, the amorphous and crystalline phases of this substance were determined. At the same time, according to the peaks of the spectrogram, based on the Miller indices and inter planar distances dhkl, complex compounds are shown that are newly formed on the basis of silicon carbide. Using the method of IR spectroscopy, the IR spectra of SiC were obtained in the optical range ν = 400-4000 cm−1.

Emerging Applications of Polymeric Nanoparticles in Tumor Targeting

Abstract: Nanoparticles are well-established carriers for targeted delivery of bioactive polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs). They have attracted significant attention from pharmaceutical scientists globally due to their wide range of applications in the medical field. The encapsulation of drugs into the nanoparticles offers several unique characteristics leading to prolonged circulation, improved drug localization, and thus enhanced drug efficacy. It also provides a better understanding of the molecular basis of the disease. Nanoparticles allow efficient maintenance of medication cycles at the target site, with less exposure to normal cells and thus decreasing the rehabilitation period. Despite extensive developments in the field of nanotechnology, specifically in drug delivery, only a few nanotechnology- based products are currently available in the market. Thus, further advanced exploration is necessary to make nanoparticles useful for the betterment of mankind. This review is focused on recent advancements in pharmaceutical nanotechnology with special emphasis on polymers used for the preparation of PNPs and their emerging applications in tumor-targeting. This manuscript also highlights the recent patents disclosing PNPs for tumor targeting.

Propagation of short-wavelength electromagnetic surface waves along the transition layer between two plasma-like half-spaces in the Voigt geometry

The dispersion properties of surface type electromagnetic waves are studied. The waves are considered to propagate along a slab transition layer located between two infinite homogeneous plasma regions of different particle densities. The wavelength is assumed to be short as compared with the layer width. The waves propagate across a static magnetic field, which is parallel to the layer interface. The influence of the smoothness of the gradient of the plasma particle density within the layer on the surface wave propagation/disappearance is discussed. The conclusions derived in the present paper are of interest in the fields of plasma electronics, nano-technologies, plasma-antenna systems, plasma production, and magnetic confinement fusion.

Numerical simulation of an electromagnetic squeezing hybrid nanofluid flow through permeable plates with sensor monitoring system

The primary aim of this study is to examine the effect of squeezing hybrid nanofluids copper and magnetite with water flow across a horizontal surface under the impact of magnetic and radiative effects, which has extensive applications in the field of biomedical engineering and nanotechnology. Additionally, a microcantilever sensor is placed between the horizontal surfaces to surveil the flow behaviors. The equations pertaining to momentum and energy are reconstructed into a set of ordinary differential equations (ODEs). These ODEs are subsequently solved through a numerical approach, wherein the bvp4c solver from MATLAB is utilized. This solver employs a collocation technique for the numerical solution. As a result, the solutions acquired for velocity and temperature are graphically displayed for different parameters, including volume fraction of nanoparticles, squeezing flow index parameter (b), magnetic parameter (M), permeable velocity parameter (f0), radiation parameter R, and Prandtl number (Pr). It has been observed that increasing the magnetic effect as well as the volume fraction of nanoparticles strengthens the flow effect. In contrast, increasing the squeezing and permeable velocity parameter impedes the flow. When there is an increase in a permeable velocity parameter, the temperature shoots up, and the cooling effect is spotted in the temperature profile, when the Prandtl number and magnetic and squeezing parameters are raised. This investigation upholds the significance of drag reduction, flow instabilities, fluid structure interactions, and heat transfer effectiveness by virtue of wall shear stress, squeezing flow index parameter, various hybrid nanofluids, and Nusselt number, respectively. A considerable comparative study has been made for the validation of current results.

Melatonin: Avenues in cancer therapy and its nanotechnological advancements

AbstractCancer is one of the most prevailing causes of mortality worldwide. Standard therapies for cancer patients include surgical intervention, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Nevertheless, chemoresistance and toxicity are clinical implications of advanced disease. New treatments are obliged to overcome these challenges. According to clinical investigations, melatonin (MLT) has the potential to prevent and cure cancer. It is nontoxic and has a plethora of anticancer properties including apoptosis, antiangiogenic, antiproliferative, and metastasis‐inhibitory mechanisms. It enhances the therapeutic sensitivity of malignancies when coupled with conventional medications. The investigations that demonstrate how MLT possesses antitumor characteristics are reviewed in this manuscript. We provided an overview of recent research on the etiology, factors associated, therapeutic property of MLT on various cancer types. We discussed the clinical implications of MLT alone or in conjunction with chemotherapeutic drugs or radiation therapy. Furthermore, we have addressed the mechanisms of its anticancer activities against several types of cancers along with research findings of various investigations done by researchers and advancements in the field of nanotechnology for efficient delivery of MLT. The recent clinical investigations of MLT in various cancer types are reported in this review.

Emerging Field of Nanotechnology in Environment.

Image depicting the application of nanotechnology in environmental concerns. The combinations of technologies like bioremediations, bioaugmentations with state-of-the-art nanotechnology like carbon nanotubes and Nano capsules to answer the environmental challenges of soil quality, and plant productivity.

Behavior of Nanoparticles in Service Transformer Oils and their Performance on Laboratory Ageing

The transformer is the most critical apparatus in the electric power network. Reliable operation of it is of foremost concern for a proficient power supply. Therefore, it is vital to safeguard the transformer so that it functions at its highest capacity. In order to achieve it, an improvement in the insulation system is necessary, as the majority of faults in transformers are due to the malfunctioning of the insulation system. Petroleum-based oils are extensively used as insulating liquids in transformers. The latterly evolved field of nanotechnology has encouraged studies on Nanofluids (NFs), which are suitable as liquid insulators. In spite of the advantages of NFs in electrical and thermal behavior compared to their base fluids, further studies are needed to establish their long-standing performances as liquid insulators. In this study, three mineral oil samples, new, mid-aged, and extensively aged, were taken. Nanofluids of 0.02% Al2O3 and 0.02% SiO2 of these oils were prepared. The base fluids and nanofluids were characterized by interfacial tension, acidity, dielectric dissipation factor, resistivity, and electric strength. The nanofluids prepared were subjected to laboratory thermal ageing in the presence of copper and kraft paper for 64 hours at 150 °C. The unaged and laboratory-aged nanofluids were characterized for acidity, Interfacial Tension (IFT), Specific Resistance (SR), Tan Delta (TD), and Dielectric Strength (BDV). It was found through this work that the addition of nanoparticles upgraded the properties of oil samples. The long-term applicability and permanence of nanofluids might depend on catalytic effects. These catalytic effects are derived from the internal assembly materials of the transformer.

ГЕОМЕТРИЧЕСКИЕ ОБРАЗЫ НАНОКЛАСТЕРОВ ПО ОКТАЭДРИЧЕСКОЙ ЛИНИИ

Interest in cluster physics increased at the edge of the second half of the 20th century, while the word «cluster» itself appeared (Eng. cluster «cluster, brush, swarm». Recently, the concept of «cluster» has become relevant due to the trend in the development of nanomaterials. Such nanomaterials obtained using unconventional growth mechanisms are extremely interesting in the field of electronics, photonics and are of great interest for catalysis. The structure and properties of nanoobjects, as well as the technologies of their application and modification are determined by the composition, structure, complex of physical (including quantum mechanical) properties, chemical properties and patterns. In the article, using computer graphics, visualization is considered and visual geometric images of nanoclusters are presented, which allow students to avoid a primitive geometric representation of nanoobjects and serve as motivation to study other natural science subjects. The knowledge and skills laid down by students in the course of engineering and computer graphics are applied to the study of the laws of the processes in the nanowire by the example of the principles of constructing geometric models of nanoclusters along an octahedral line using 3D modeling. The features of the morphology of nanoobjects that determine the relevance of the modernization of students' training in the application of interrelated skills of such disciplines as «Nanomaterial Science», «Nanotechnology», «Engineering and computer graphics» are considered. The content of the article is intended for specialists working in the fields of nanotechnology and can be useful for graduate students and students studying in the fields of «Electronics and microelectronics» and «Nanotechnology», as well as for students of technological specialties of mining and geological and architectural and construction profile.

Perspectives on the Application of Nanomaterials in Medical and Dental Practices.

A new field of study called nanotechnology concentrates on manipulating matter at atomic and molecular levels. Modern medicine may benefit tremendously from developments in the field of nanotechnology, and as a result, nanomedicine has emerged as a key location of education in the specific area of nanotechnology. This article aims to describe nanotechnology's possible applications in therapeutics. Nanotechnology and nanomedicine have allowed for the development of new dental materials that are stronger, more resistant to microbial seeding, etc. Other examples include high-strength denture bases, antimicrobial dental glue, aesthetic restorative materials comprised of small particles, and interface adorning for dental posts. Nanotechnology has been perfectly utilized in the medical industry for tissue engineering, biosensors, nanoscale diagnostic tools, and medication delivery using nanoparticles.

Multifunctional Nanotheranostics for Dual-Modal Imaging-Guided Precision Therapy of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma.

Currently, the low survival rate and poor prognosis of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma are ascribed to the lack of early and accurate diagnosis and resistance to radiotherapy. In parallel, the integration of imaging-guided diagnosis and precise treatment has gained much attention in the field of theranostic nanotechnology. However, constructing dual-modal imaging-guided nanotheranostics with desired imaging performance as well as great biocompatibility remains challenging. Therefore, we developed a simple but multifunctional nanotheranostic GdCPP for the early and accurate diagnosis and efficient treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), which combined fluorescence imaging and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) onto a single nanoplatform for imaging-guided subsequent photodynamic therapy (PDT). GdCPP had an appropriate particle size (81.93 ± 0.69 nm) and was highly stable, resulting in sufficient tumor accumulation, which along with massive reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation upon irradiation further significantly killed tumor cells. Moreover, GdCPP owned much stronger r1 relaxivity (9.396 mM-1 s-1) compared to clinically used Gd-DTPA (5.034 mM-1 s-1) and exhibited better T1WI MRI performance. Under dual-modal imaging-guided PDT, GdCPP achieved efficient therapeutic outcomes without causing any noticeable tissue damage. The results of in vitro and in vivo studies indicated that GdCPP may be a suitable candidate for dual-modal imaging-guided precision tumor therapy.

NIR-II Nanoprobes: A Review of Components-Based Approaches to Next-Generation Bioimaging Probes.

Fluorescence and photoacoustic imaging techniques offer valuable insights into cell- and tissue-level processes. However, these optical imaging modalities are limited by scattering and absorption in tissue, resulting in the low-depth penetration of imaging. Contrast-enhanced imaging in the near-infrared window improves imaging penetration by taking advantage of reduced autofluorescence and scattering effects. Current contrast agents for fluorescence and photoacoustic imaging face several limitations from photostability and targeting specificity, highlighting the need for a novel imaging probe development. This review covers a broad range of near-infrared fluorescent and photoacoustic contrast agents, including organic dyes, polymers, and metallic nanostructures, focusing on their optical properties and applications in cellular and animal imaging. Similarly, we explore encapsulation and functionalization technologies toward building targeted, nanoscale imaging probes. Bioimaging applications such as angiography, tumor imaging, and the tracking of specific cell types are discussed. This review sheds light on recent advancements in fluorescent and photoacoustic nanoprobes in the near-infrared window. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers working in fields of biomedical imaging and nanotechnology, facilitating the development of innovative nanoprobes for improved diagnostic approaches in preclinical healthcare.