High Surface Research Articles

Silver nanoparticles (AGNPs): A review on properties and behavior of silver at the nanoscale level

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have garnered significant interest due to their unique and enhanced properties compared to bulk silver. These nanoparticles exhibit remarkable chemical, physical, and biological characteristics, primarily attributed to their high surface area-to-volume ratio and nanoscale dimensions. Key properties include superior antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal activities, potent catalytic capabilities, and distinctive optical properties, such as localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR). These enhanced properties stem from the increased surface reactivity and quantum effects at the nanoscale. AgNPs are extensively applied across various fields. In medicine, they are utilized for their antimicrobial properties in wound dressings, coatings for medical devices, and as components in drug delivery systems. In environmental science, they serve as effective agents in water treatment processes due to their potent antimicrobial action. Additionally, AgNPs are employed in electronics for conductive inks, in catalysis for chemical reactions, and in textiles for producing antibacterial fabrics. The improved properties of silver nanoparticles over bulk silver are mainly due to the increased proportion of surface atoms, which leads to higher surface energy and reactivity. Furthermore, the nanoscale dimensions allow for quantum confinement effects, enhancing their optical and electronic properties. These unique characteristics enable AgNPs to perform more effectively and efficiently in various applications, making them a vital component in advancing technology and healthcare solutions.

Examining the Correlation between the Inorganic Nano-Fertilizer Physical Properties and Their Impact on Crop Performance and Nutrient Uptake Efficiency.

The physical properties of nano-fertilizers (NFs) are important in determining their performance, efficacy, and environmental interactions. Nano-fertilizers, due to their small size and high surface area-to-volume ratio, enhance plant metabolic reactions, resulting in higher crop yields. The properties of nano-fertilizers depend on the synthesis methods used. The nanoparticle's nutrient use efficiency (NUE) varies among plant species. This review aims to analyze the relationship between the physical properties of NF and their influence on crop performance and nutrient uptake efficiency. The review focuses on the physical properties of NFs, specifically their size, shape, crystallinity, and agglomeration. This review found that smaller particle-sized nanoparticles exhibit higher nutrient use efficiency than larger particles. Nano-fertilizer-coated additives gradually release nutrients, reducing the need for frequent application and addressing limitations associated with chemical fertilizer utilization. The shapes of nano-fertilizers have varying effects on the overall performance of plants. The crystalline structure of nanoparticles promotes a slow release of nutrients. Amorphous nano-fertilizers improve the NUE and, ultimately, crop yield. Agglomeration results in nanoparticles losing their nanoscale size, accumulating on the outer surface, and becoming unavailable to plants. Understanding the physical properties of nano-fertilizers is crucial for optimizing their performance in agricultural applications.

A Comprehensive Review of Nanoparticles: From Classification to Application and Toxicity.

Nanoparticles are structures that possess unique properties with high surface area-to-volume ratio. Their small size, up to 100 nm, and potential for surface modifications have enabled their use in a wide range of applications. Various factors influence the properties and applications of NPs, including the synthesis method and physical attributes such as size and shape. Additionally, the materials used in the synthesis of NPs are primary determinants of their application. Based on the chosen material, NPs are generally classified into three categories: organic, inorganic, and carbon-based. These categories include a variety of materials, such as proteins, polymers, metal ions, lipids and derivatives, magnetic minerals, and so on. Each material possesses unique attributes that influence the activity and application of the NPs. Consequently, certain NPs are typically used in particular areas because they possess higher efficiency along with tenable toxicity. Therefore, the classification and the base material in the NP synthesis hold significant importance in both NP research and application. In this paper, we discuss these classifications, exemplify most of the major materials, and categorize them according to their preferred area of application. This review provides an overall review of the materials, including their application, and toxicity.

Nanocellulose/Nanoporous Silicon Composite Films as a Drug Delivery System.

Nanocellulose (NC) is a promising material for drug delivery due to its high surface area-to-volume ratio, biocompatibility, biodegradability, and versatility in various formats (nanoparticles, hydrogels, microspheres, membranes, and films). In this study, nanocellulose films were derived from "Bolaina blanca" (Guazuma crinita) and combined with nanoporous silicon microparticles (nPSi) in concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 1.0% (w/v), using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as a binding agent to create NC/nPSi composite films for drug delivery systems. The physicochemical properties of the samples were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy-attenuated total reflectance (FTIR-ATR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The mechanical properties and drug release capabilities were also evaluated using methylene blue (MB) as an antibacterial drug model. Antibacterial assays were conducted against S. aureus and E. coli bacteria. The results show that NC/nPSi composites with 1% nPSi increased the T50% by 10 °C and enhanced mechanical properties, such as a 70% increase in the elastic modulus and a 372% increase in elongation, compared to NC films. Additionally, MB released from NC/nPSi composites effectively inhibited the growth of both bacteria. It was also observed that the diffusion coefficients were inversely proportional to the % nPSi. These findings suggest that this novel NC/nPSi-based material can serve as an effective controlled drug release system.

Disodium terephthalate as a multifunctional additive for simultaneous enhancing the energy release performance and weakening the water reactivity of aluminum

In this study, disodium terephthalate (Na2TP) has been successfully introduced as a novel multifunctional additive for simultaneous enhancing the energy release performance and weakening the water reactivity of micro-aluminum (μ-Al). Seven μ-Al/Na2TP composites with different contents of Na2TP (R-100 to R-700) and four comparison samples have been prepared to investigate the thermochemical behaviors, combustion performances and water reactivity. Importantly, structure characterizations as well as kinetic parameters (e.g., Ea, ΔS‡) have been performed to reveal the impacts of Na2TP on μ-Al oxidation. Moreover, incorporating Na2TP into μ-Al shows the enhancement of energy release, with R-400 exhibiting the highest heat release (4970 J/g) in the main oxidation stage, compared to μ-Al (1696 J/g). Interestingly, μ-Al shows an increased Ea while R-400 exhibits a decreased Ea as the oxidation proceeds. The decomposition of Na2TP generates both heat and CO2 gases, which are beneficial for destroying alumina shell and increasing oxidation kinetics, in consistent with higher positive ΔS‡ value, rougher surface, and higher surface O content for oxidation of R-400 compared to μ-Al. As a result, the enhanced combustion performances of higher peak pressure, pressurization rate and characteristic shock velocity as well as brighter/larger flame images have been achieved by μ-Al/Na2TP composites. On the other hand, water reactivity of μ-Al has been significantly suppressed by introducing Na2TP in terms of the 85.4 % decrease in heat release, elevated Ea, and alteration of reaction mechanism. Consequently, taking organic Na2TP as a multifunctional additive, two birds of enhancing the energy release and weakening the water reactivity is harvested, showing great potentials in improving the performances of metal-based energy systems.

Porous β-cyclodextrin polymers for rapid and efficient removal of organic micropollutants from water: The role of sulfonation and porosity on adsorption performance

Removal of organic micropollutants (OMPs) from water, especially hydrophilic and ionized ones, is challenging for water remediation. Herein, porous β-cyclodextrin polymers (PCPs) with tailored functionalization were prepared based on molecular expansion strategy and sulfonation. Partially benzylated β-cyclodextrin was knotted by external crosslinker to form PCP1, and knotting PCP1 by expansion molecule generated PCP2. PCP1 and PCP2 were sulfonated to achieve PCP1–SO3H and PCP2–SO3H. Based on systematical adsorption evaluation toward multiple categories of OMPs, it was found that the introduced strong polar –SO3H group could bring strong hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions. PCP2 showed the highest surface (998.97 m2/g) displayed more excellent adsorption performance toward neutral and anionic OMPs, and the adsorption mechanism for this property of PCP2 was dominated by hydrophobic interactions. In addition, the PCP1–SO3H with the lowest surface area (39.75 m2/g) rather than PCP2–SO3H with higher surface (519.28 m2/g) exhibited more superior adsorption towards hydrophilic and cationic OMPs, benefiting by hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions as well as appropriate porosity. These results not only confirmed the performance enhancement of PCPs through the integration of novel preparation strategy, but also provided fundamental guidance for PCPs design for water remediation.

Effect of methane flow in inverse diffusion flame and surface morphology on synthesis of copper–carbon nanotubes composite

ABSTRACT In an inverse diffusion flame of fuel-rich methane–air mixture, a distinct separation between a yellow flame situated atop a high-temperature blue flame structure enabled the growth of carbon nanotubes on relatively low melting temperature copper substrates within a carbon-rich precursor environment. However, high-affinity passivation layers formation on copper prevented the diffusion of carbon precursors, rendering the growth of carbon nanotubes on copper challenging. Removal of passivation layers via sulphuric acid treatment facilitates the synthesis of carbon nanotubes within the flame. Nevertheless, the impact of sulphuric acid treatment on the surface morphology of copper, and its influence on the growth of carbon nanotubes in the presence of methane–air mixtures, remains relatively unexplored. This research investigates the effects of sulphuric acid treatment and methane–air mixtures towards the growth of carbon nanotubes on copper substrates. Application of sulphuric acid treatment yields a surface characterised by high surface area-to-volume nano-hills morphology, which enhances the adsorption of carbon atoms and leads to the growth of carbon nanotubes with lifted copper nanoparticles. The optimal growth of carbon nanotubes occurs at a specific methane flow rate, where the supply of carbon precursors aligns with the diffusion of carbon atoms and growth rate of carbon nanotubes.

AQDS-functionalized biochar enhances the bioreduction of Cr(VI) by Shewanella putrefaciens CN32

The bioreduction of toxic chromium(VI) to sparingly soluble chromium(III) represents an environmentally friendly and cost-effective method for remediating Cr contamination. Usually, this bioreduction process is slow and requires the addition of quinone compounds as electron shuttles to enhance the reaction rate. However, the dissolved quinone compounds are susceptible to loss with water flow, thereby limiting their effectiveness. To address this challenge, this study loaded anthraquinone-2,6-disulfonate (AQDS), a typical quinone compound, onto biochar (BC) to create a novel solid-phase electron mediator (BC-AQDS) that can sustainably promote Cr(VI) bioreduction. The experimental results demonstrated that BC-AQDS significantly promoted the bioreduction of Cr(VI), where the reaction rate constant increased by 4.81 times, and the reduction extent increased by 38.31%. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy analysis revealed that AQDS replaced the –OH functional groups on the BC surface to form BC-AQDS. Upon receiving electrons from Shewanella putrefaciens CN32, BC-AQDS was reduced to BC-AH2DS, which subsequently facilitated the reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III). This redox cycle between BC-AQDS and BC-AH2DS effectively enhanced the bioreduction rate of Cr(VI). Our study also found that a lower carbonization temperature of BC resulted in a higher surface –OH functional group content, enabling a greater load of AQDS and a more pronounced enhancement effect on the bioreduction of Cr(VI). Additionally, a smaller particle size of BC and a higher dosage of BC-AQDS further contributed to the enhancement of Cr(VI) bioreduction. The preparation of BC-AQDS in this study effectively improve the utilization of quinone compounds and offer a promising approach for enhancing the bioreduction of Cr(VI). It provides a more comprehensive reference for understanding and solving the problem of Cr pollution in groundwater.

Co- and Triaxial Electrospinning for Stem Cell-based Bone Regeneration.

Bone tissue is composed of organic minerals and cells. It has the capacity to heal for certain minor damages, but when the bone defects surpass the critical threshold, they need fixing. Bone regeneration through natural and synthetic biodegradable materials requires various steps, such as manufacturing methods and materials selection. A successful biodegradable bone graft should have a high surface area/ volume ratio, strength, and a biocompatible, porous structure capable of promoting cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation. Considering these requirements, the electrospinning technique is promising for creating functional nano-sized scaffolds. The multi-axial methods, such as coaxial and triaxial electrospinning, are the most popular techniques to produce double or tri-layered scaffolds, respectively. Recently, stem cell culture on scaffolds and the application of osteogenic differentiation protocols on these scaffolds have opened new possibilities in the field of biomaterials research. This review discusses an overview of the progress in coaxial and triaxial technology through biodegradable composite bone materials. The review also carefully elaborates the osteogenic differentiation using stem cells and their performance with nano-sized scaffolds.

Comparative efficacy and safety of six angiotensin IIreceptor blockers in hypertensive patients: a network meta-analysis.

The antihypertensive effects of angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) are well recognized. However, conventional meta-analyses have reported inconsistent results on their efficacy and safety. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of six ARBs (losartan, valsartan, irbesartan, telmisartan, candesartan, and olmesartan) commonly used to treat hypertension, using anetwork meta-analysis. We retrieved randomized controlled trials on hypertension treatment using ARBs from the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, and Wanfang databases. The efficacy outcomes included absolute changes in office systolic and diastolic blood pressure from baseline, and 24-h ambulatory blood pressure. Safety outcomes were assessed by the total number of adverse events (AEs) during treatment. We conducted the network meta-analysis using the 'bugsnet' and 'gemtc' packages in R. A total of 193 studieswere included. Olmesartan had the highest surface under the cumulative ranking in reducing office systolic (91.4%) and diastolic blood pressure (87.2%). Candesartan has the highest ranking in lowering 24h ambulatory systolic blood pressure (95.4%), while telmisartan reduced 24h ambulatory diastolic blood pressure (83.4%). Olmesartan also ranked highest in safety (70.8%). Valsartan and losartan were less effective in lowering blood pressure than other drugs, with no significant differences. Olmesartan and telmisartan were associated with fewer AEs than losartan, although the incidence of adverse events was similar between the other blockers. Olmesartan and telmisartan demonstrated the best balance of antihypertensive efficacy and minimal adverse events.More research is needed to confirm whether telmisartan and olmesartan are optimal choices for controlling blood pressure in patients.

Strategic assembly of active phases on Co-Fe bimetallic catalysts for efficient Fischer-Tropsch synthesis

In the realm of Fischer-Tropsch synthesis (FTS), the escalating cost of cobalt has spurred interest in Co-Fe bimetallic catalysts as substitutes for monometallic Co catalysts. Unfortunately, it is difficult to clarify specific functions and interactions of the two phases, as investigating catalysts in a unified dimension of both metal and support is still a challenge. Herein, we realize precise control over synthesizing nitrogen-doped carbon materials supported bimetallic catalysts containing CoFe alloy and Co + Fe2C dual active phases. The catalysts are comprehensively characterized to address the above problem by excluding the influence of metal sizes and support properties. Our findings reveal that compared to metallic Co alone and Co + Fe2C dual active phases, the Co-Fe interaction in CoFe alloy with electron transfer from Fe to Co optimizes reactant adsorption behaviors through achieving a larger number of strongly adsorbed CO per active site to increase the density of C* adsorbates and a higher surface CO/H2 ratio to inhibit the hydrogenation of CHx* intermediates for chain termination, as well as an appropriate ability for CO adsorption/ dissociation. These advantages collectively enhance both CO activation and C-C coupling, and consequently, the CoFe/NC (CoFe alloy) catalyst exhibits the superior catalytic performance in the cobalt space–time yield in C5+ products (3011.2 gC5+ kgCo−1h−1), which surpasses the Co/NC (monometallic Co) and Co + Fe/NC (Co + Fe2C dual active phases) by 2.2 times and 2.4 times, respectively. This study serves as a promising route for the development of efficient and low-cost bimetallic catalysts through the strategic arrangement of multiple active phases for various reactions.

Pt-Embedded Metal–Organic Frameworks Deriving Pt/ZnO-In2O3 Electrospun Hollow Nanofibers for Enhanced Formaldehyde Gas Sensing

Functionalization by noble metal catalysts and the construction of heterojunctions are two effective methods to enhance the gas sensing performance of metal oxide-based sensors. In this work, we adopt the porous ZIF-8 as a catalyst substrate to encapsulate the ultra-small Pt nanoparticles. The Pt/ZnO-In2O3 hollow nanofibers derived from Pt/ZIF-8 were prepared by a facile electrospinning method. The 25PtZI HNFs sensor possessed a response value of 48.3 to 100 ppm HCHO, 2.7 times higher than the pristine In2O3, along with rapid response/recovery time (5/22 s), and lower theoretical detection limit (74.6 ppb). The improved sensing properties can be attributed to the synergistic effects of electron sensitization effects and catalytic effects of Pt nanoparticles, and the high surface O− absorbing capability of heterojunctions. The present study paves a new way to design high performance formaldehyde gas sensors in practical application.

Sustainable nanomaterials' role in green supply chains and environmental sustainability

The review explores the pivotal role of sustainable nanomaterials in promoting green supply chains and advancing environmental sustainability. Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising field for developing innovative materials with enhanced properties and reduced environmental impacts. Sustainable nanomaterials, characterized by their eco-friendly synthesis methods, biodegradability, and low toxicity, offer transformative opportunities for enhancing the sustainability of supply chains across diverse industries. This review examines the potential applications of sustainable nanomaterials in green supply chains, encompassing areas such as renewable energy, water purification, waste management, and sustainable packaging. By leveraging the unique properties of nanomaterials, such as high surface area-to-volume ratio, catalytic activity, and tunable properties, businesses can develop sustainable solutions to address pressing environmental challenges. Case studies and examples highlight successful integration of sustainable nanomaterials into supply chain practices, showcasing their ability to reduce resource consumption, minimize waste generation, and mitigate environmental impacts. The review also discusses challenges and considerations associated with the adoption of sustainable nanomaterials, including regulatory compliance, risk assessment, and ethical considerations. Strategies for promoting responsible nanotechnology practices and fostering collaboration among stakeholders are proposed, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and stakeholder engagement in achieving sustainable supply chain goals. In conclusion, the integration of sustainable nanomaterials into green supply chains holds immense potential for driving environmental sustainability, innovation, and long-term prosperity. Keywords: Sustainable Nanomaterials, Green Supply Chains, Environmental Sustainability, Circular Economy, Nanotechnology, Supply Chain Optimization

Nanotechnology's potential in advancing renewable energy solutions

Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising frontier in the quest for sustainable energy solutions, offering transformative opportunities to address pressing challenges in renewable energy generation, storage, and conversion. This review explores the potential of nanotechnology in advancing renewable energy solutions, encompassing a wide range of applications spanning solar energy, wind energy, energy storage, and fuel cells. By leveraging the unique properties of nanomaterials, such as high surface area-to-volume ratio, tunable optical and electronic properties, and enhanced catalytic activity, researchers and engineers can develop innovative materials and devices with unprecedented performance and efficiency. Nanotechnology-enabled advancements in solar photovoltaics include the development of next-generation solar cells incorporating nanostructured materials, such as quantum dots, nanowires, and perovskite-based solar cells, to enhance light absorption, charge transport, and overall power conversion efficiency. In the realm of energy storage, nanomaterials hold promise for improving the performance and longevity of batteries, supercapacitors, and other energy storage devices through enhanced electrode materials, electrolytes, and nanostructured architectures. Furthermore, nanotechnology-driven innovations in wind energy, such as lightweight and durable nanocomposite materials for turbine blades, and advancements in fuel cell technologies, including catalyst nanoparticles for efficient hydrogen production and conversion, exemplify the diverse applications and transformative potential of nanotechnology in renewable energy. Through a comprehensive analysis of recent research and development efforts, this abstract underscores the critical role of nanotechnology in accelerating the transition to a sustainable and renewable energy future. Keywords: Nanotechnology, Renewable Energy, Solar Energy, Wind Energy, Energy Storage, Nanomaterials.

Therapeutic Potential of Nanocarrier Mediated Delivery of Peptides for Wound Healing: Current Status, Challenges and Future Prospective.

Wound healing presents a complex physiological process that involves a sequence of events orchestrated by various cellular and molecular mechanisms. In recent years, there has been growing interest in leveraging nanomaterials and peptides to enhance wound healing outcomes. Nanocarriers offer unique properties such as high surface area-to-volume ratio, tunable physicochemical characteristics, and the ability to deliver therapeutic agents in a controlled manner. Similarly, peptides, with their diverse biological activities and low immunogenicity, hold great promise as therapeutics in wound healing applications. In this review, authors explore the potential of peptides as bioactive components in wound healing formulations, focusing on their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and pro-regenerative properties. Despite the significant progress made in this field, several challenges remain, including the need for standardized characterization methods, optimization of biocompatibility and safety profiles, and translation from bench to bedside. Furthermore, developing multifunctional nanomaterial-peptide hybrid systems represents promising avenues for future research. Overall, the integration of nanomaterials made up of natural or synthetic polymers with peptide-based formulations holds tremendous therapeutic potential in advancing the field of wound healing and improving clinical outcomes for patients with acute and chronic wounds.

Visible-light-driven photocatalytic degradation of ibuprofen by Cu-doped tubular C3N4: Mechanisms, degradation pathway and DFT calculation

The copper-modified tubular carbon nitride (CTCN) with higher specific surface area and pore volume was prepared by a simple in-situ hydrolysis and self-assembly. Increased ∼4.7-fold and ∼2.3-fold degradation rate for a representative refractory water pollutant (Ibuprofen, IBP) were achieved with low-energy light source (LED, 420 ± 10 nm), as compared to graphitic carbon nitride (GCN) and tubular carbon nitride (TCN), respectively. The high efficiency of IBP removal was supported by narrow band gap (2.15 eV), high photocurrent intensity (1.10 μA/cm2) and the high surface -OH group (14.75 μg/cm3) of CTCN. According to analysis of the various reactive species in the degradation, the superoxide radical (•O2−) played a dominant role, followed by •OH and h+, responsible for IBP degradation. Furthermore, Fukui functions were employed to predict the active sites of IBP, and combined with the HPLC-MS/MS results, possible mechanisms and pathways for photocatalytic degradation were indicated. This study will lay an important scientific foundation and a possible new approach for the treatment of emerging aromatic organic pollutants in visible-light-driven heterogeneous catalytic oxidation environment.

Discrete Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes for Versatile Intracellular Transport of Functional Biomolecular Complexes

In recent years, carbon nanotubes have emerged as a potentially revolutionary material with numerous uses in biomedical applications. Compared to other nanoparticles, discrete multiwalled carbon nanotubes (dMWCNTs) have been shown to exhibit advantageous characteristics such as a high surface area-to-volume ratio, biocompatibility, and unique chemical and physical properties. dMWCNTs can be modified to load various molecules such as proteins and nucleic acids and are capable of crossing the cell membrane, making them attractive delivery vehicles for biomolecules. To investigate this, we measured the impact of dMWCNTs on the number of live and dead cells present during different stages of cell proliferation. Furthermore, we used transmission electron microscopy to produce evidence suggesting that dMWCNTs enter the cytoplasm of mammalian cells via an endocytosis-like process and ultimately escape into the cytoplasm. And lastly, we used live-cell staining, qPCR, and a T-cell activation detection assay to quantify the use of dMWCNTs as a delivery vehicle for a toxic, membrane-impermeable peptide, mRNA, siRNA, and a T-cell activating synthetic dsRNA. We demonstrate successful delivery of each payload into a range of cell types, providing further evidence of dMWCNTs as a versatile delivery platform for biomolecular cargo.

Poly(vinyl alcohol)/graphene nanoplatelet nanocomposites: Elucidation of the nanofiller, dispersing agent, and interphase effects on thermomechanical properties

AbstractPoly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/graphene nanoplatelet (GnP) nanocomposite films were fabricated by a solution casting method. High loadings (30–40 wt.%) of two GnP grades, that is, xGnP C300 (low surface area/large size) and C750 (high surface area/small size), were utilized in combination with three commercial dispersing agents, that is, DISPERBYK‐161, DISPERBYK‐162 TF, and DISPERBYK‐2014, to yield films with desirable stiffness and energy dissipation characteristics (dynamic mechanical analysis, DMA), as well as thermal properties (thermogravimetric analysis, TGA) for potential impact resistance applications. The addition of GnPs and dispersing agents to PVA leads to a maximum six‐fold increase in its Young's modulus for the PVA sample containing 40 wt.% C300 GnPs and DISPERBYK‐162 TF. However, the modulus of resilience drops dramatically for the same sample (about 18‐fold decrease), as expected. Also, C300 GnPs yield nanocomposites with higher Young's moduli that those obtained using C750 GnPs. The atomic force microscopy stiffness maps illustrate that C300 GnPs disperse better in the PVA matrix. Furthermore, the average interphase thickness in the PVA‐C300 nanocomposites (~300 nm) is almost double that of PVA‐C750 nanocomposites. Based on the TGA results, the addition of GnPs and dispersing agent to the PVA matrix leads to a moderate increase (an average of 3.5%) in the value of the neat PVA, while its char yield increases by an average 8.5‐fold. Specifically, the PVA/GnP nanocomposites containing DISPERBYK‐162 TF yield the largest and char yield values than the other systems. The insights gained in this work can guide the design of coatings for impact resistance applications.

"Three-in-one": A Photoactivable Nanoplatform Evokes Anti-Immune Response by Inhibiting BRD4-cMYC-PDL1 Axis to Intensify Photo-Immunotherapy.

Combinatorial immuno-cancer therapy is recognized as a promising approach for efficiently treating malignant tumors. Yet, the development of multifunctional nanomedicine capable of precise tumor targeting, remote activation, and immune-regulating drug delivery remains a significant challenge. In this study, nanoparticles loaded with an immune checkpoint inhibitor (JQ-1) using polypyrrole/hyaluronic acid (PPyHA/JQ-1) are developed. These nanoparticles offer active tumor targeting, photothermal tumor ablation using near-infrared light, and laser-controlled JQ-1 release for efficient breast cancer treatment. When the molecular weight of HA varies (from 6.8kDa to 3 MDa) in the PPyHA nanoparticles, it is found that the nanoparticles synthesized using 1 MDa HA, referred to as PPyHA (1m), show the most suitable properties, including small hydrodynamic size, high surface HA contents, and colloidal stability. Upon 808nm laser irradiation, PPyHA/JQ-1 elevates the temperature above 55°C, which is sufficient for thermal ablation and active release of JQ-1 in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Notably, the controlled release of JQ-1 substantially inhibits the expression of cancer-promoting genes. Furthermore, PPyHA/JQ-1 effectively suppresses the expression of programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) and prolongs dendritic cell maturation and CD8+ T cell activation against the tumor both in vitro and in vivo. PPyHA/JQ-1 treatment simultaneously provides a significant tumor regression through photothermal therapy and immune checkpoint blockade, leading to a durable antitumor-immune response. Overall, "Three-in-one" immunotherapeutic photo-activable nanoparticles have the potential to be beneficial for a targeted combinatorial treatment approach for TNBC.

Enhancing Biodiesel Production: A Review of Microchannel Reactor Technologies

The depletion of fossil fuels, along with the environmental damages brought by their usage, calls for the development of a clean, sustainable and renewable source of energy. Biofuel, predominantly liquid biofuel such as biodiesel, is a promising alternative to fossil fuels, due to its compatible direct usage within the context of compression ignition engines. However, the industrial production of biodiesel is far from being energy and time efficient, which contributes to its high production cost. These inefficiencies are attributed to poor heat and mass transfer of the transesterification reaction. The utilisation of microchannel reactors is found to be excellent in escalating heat and mass transfer of the reactants, benefitting from their high surface area-to-volume ratio. The microchannel also intensifies the mixing of reactants via the reactor design, micromixers and the slug flow patterns within the reactor, thus enhancing the contact between reactants. Simulation studies have aided in the identification of mixing regimes within the microchannel reactors, induced by various reactor designs. In addition, microwave irradiation heating is found to enhance biodiesel production by localised superheating delivered directly to the reactants at a molecular level. This enables the reaction to begin much earlier, resulting in rapid biodiesel production. It is postulated that the synergy between microchannel reactors and microwave heating would catapult a pathway towards rapid and energy-efficient biodiesel production by enhancing heat and mass transfer between reactants.