Spherical Structure Research Articles

Physicochemical Properties, Antioxidant Capacity and Bioavailability of Whey Protein Concentrate-Based Coenzyme Q10 Nanoparticles

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a powerful antioxidant. However, the poor water solubility and low bioavailability still remain challenges for its application. An embedded delivery system of CoQ10 based on whey protein concentrate (WPC) and polymerized whey protein concentrate (PWPC) was prepared, and the physicochemical properties, antioxidant capacity and bioavailability were characterized in this study. Both groups of nanoparticles showed a particle size distribution from 241 to 331 nm in the protein-to-CoQ10 mass ratio range of 100:1 to 20:1. In addition, the minimum polydispersity index value was observed at the mass ratio of 20:1. Differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier transform infrared spectra analysis revealed that the CoQ10 was successfully dispersed in the WPC and PWPC particles through hydrophobic interaction in both groups in addition to the hydrogen bond present in the WPC group. All nanoparticles exhibited irregular spherical or aggregate structure in the transmission electron microscopy diagram. The PWPC-based nanoparticles showed a slightly higher antioxidant capacity than that of the WPC, and both values were significantly higher than that of its corresponding physical mixture and free CoQ10 (p < 0.05). The results of the simulated gastrointestinal digestion experiments denoted that these two nanoparticles could protect CoQ10 from gastric digestion and then deliver it to the intestine. Compared with its free state, the bioavailability of CoQ10 embedded in WPC and PWPC increased by nearly 7.58 times and 7.48 times, respectively. The data indicated that WPC and PWPC could be effective delivery carriers to enhance the bioavailability of active substances like CoQ10.

Fast and Sensitive Detection of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG Using SiO2@Au@CDs Nanoparticle-Based Lateral Flow Immunoassay Strip Coupled with Miniaturized Fluorimeter

The development of a novel strategy for the measurement of SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies is of vital significance for COVID-19 diagnosis and effect of vaccination evaluation. In this investigation, an SiO2@Au@CDs nanoparticle (NP)-based lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA) strip was fabricated and coupled with a miniaturized fluorimeter. The morphology features and particle sizes of the SiO2@Au@CDs NPs were characterized carefully, and the results indicated that the materials possess monodisperse, uniform, and spherical structures. Finally, this system was employed for SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody test. In this work, the strategy for the SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody test possesses several merits, such as speed (less than 15 min), high sensitivity (1.2 × 10−7 mg/mL), broad linearity range (7.4 × 10−7~7.4 × 10−4 mg/mL), accurate results, high selectivity, good stability, and low cost. Additionally, future trends in LFAs using quantum dot-based diagnostics are envisioned.

Insights of anisotropic compact stellar structures in f(R, T) theory

Abstract This study formulates two distinct non-singular interior solutions that characterize anisotropic spherical structures in the context of f(R, T) theory. We formulate the modified Einstein field equations alongside the corresponding anisotropic factor associated with a static interior spacetime. The field equations are then addressed by implementing two unique constraints that facilitate to solve a system. By adopting specific forms of pressure anisotropy, we derive two different solutions. In both scenarios, we encounter differential equations whose solutions incorporate integration constants which are determined by equating the metric functions of an interior metric with those of the Schwarzschild exterior metric at the boundary of the sphere. The condition of zero radial pressure at the hypersurface also plays a crucial role in this regard. Subsequently, we explore specific conditions that, when met, yield physically feasible compact models. To graphically assess them, we take into account the estimated data of a star, namely SAX J 1808.4-3658 along with different values of the model parameter. Our findings indicate that both stellar solutions align well with the physically existence criteria under certain parametric values.

Mechanical characteristics and design parameter analysis of spherical hinge structure for swivel bridge

As the core component of a swivel bridge, the spherical hinge structure exhibits complex mechanical behavior under high pressure, making it challenging to describe accurately through theoretical analysis or on-site monitoring. In this context, this paper systematically examined the mechanical characteristics and key design parameters of a simplified spherical hinge structure using numerical simulations and formula derivation. Additionally, an indoor scaled test was conducted based on a representative spherical hinge structure to further investigate its mechanical properties. The findings indicated that contact pressure along the spherical hinge interface increased radially outward and followed a cubic distribution pattern. The support radius was identified as the most critical factor influencing the maximum stress value within the spherical hinge structure. In the aperture ratio range of 0.042 to 0.083, the upper and lower spherical hinges are unable to achieve coordinated deformation under high pressure, resulting in negative pressure at the edge of the pin hole. Furthermore, for spherical hinge structures with sliders, the presence of the slider introduced additional complexity to the stress state, leading to a coexistence of tension and compression on the surface of the lower spherical hinge. The highest stress occurred between the inner ring slider and the pin hole, an area that requires careful monitoring. The research provides valuable insights for the design of spherical hinges in swivel bridges and can guide the development of spherical hinge structures tailored to different bridge types in the future.

Preparation of Expandable Polymer Plugging Agent and Its Application in Water‐Based Drilling Fluid

ABSTRACTIn order to reduce the economic loss caused by well leakage and the lag of drilling progress, it is very important to use plugging materials reasonably and effectively. Expandable polymer materials can better fill cracks and holes of different sizes by absorbing water expansion and deforming. In this article, an expandable polymer plugging agent (PSMAN) was prepared by soap‐free emulsion polymerization using methyl methacrylate (MMA), styrene (St), 2‐acrylamide‐2‐methylpropanesulfonic acid (AMPS) as reaction monomers, N‐hydroxymethyl acrylamide (NMA) as a cross‐linking agent, and ammonium persulfate (APS) as initiator. The optimal synthesis conditions were determined by designing the orthogonal experiments, and the various properties of the materials were tested and evaluated. The experimental results show that PSMAN has good high temperature resistance, spherical structure, and median particle size of 15.099 μm, and the water absorption rate of room temperature at 24 h reaches 37.8 g/g, and pressure bearing capacity can reach 5 MPa. The addition of polymer to water‐based drilling fluid can increase the viscosity of drilling fluid and improve the rheological properties of drilling fluid by a small amount. Under normal temperature and medium pressure, the polymer can form a dense film on the surface of the mud cake, thereby reducing the filtration of drilling fluid and effectively improving the stability of the wellbore.

Regulation of receptor function in NiCo2O4-SnO2 heterojunction for H2S detection at room temperature

In recent years, the World Health Organization has increasingly emphasized air quality in production environments, leading to heightened societal demands for monitoring of pollutant gases at room temperature. Traditional semiconductor gas-sensitive materials, such as tin oxide (SnO2), have their gas-sensing performance largely limited by their receptor functions, resulting in common issues like low response and poor recovery at room temperature. Spinel-type bimetallic oxides, such as nickel cobaltate (NiCo2O4), offer a unique solution due to their rich adsorption sites on the surface, which provide distinctive receptor functions for detecting toxic gases at room temperature. Herein, NiCo2O4 is synthesized via a one-step hydrothermal method, with a porous spherical cluster structure, and combined with SnO2 to form a heterojunction. The NiCo2O4-SnO2 heterojunction film gas sensor exhibits excellent gas-sensing performance for H2S at room temperature, including high response, short response time, good repeatability, and selectivity. Additionally, the unique receptor functions of the NiCo2O4 were analyzed through first-principles calculations, revealing a semiconductor p-n conversion phenomenon in the presence of H2S gas. The composite also demonstrates a conversion from p-n heterojunction to n-n homojunction during the sensing process, enhancing its gas-sensing performance. This work not only addresses the receptor function limitations of traditional gas-sensitive semiconductor but also provides a feasible approach for controlling carrier types in semiconductors.

Assessment of Internal Short-Circuit Risks in Overdischarged Lithium Batteries Under Various Charging Conditions

This study analyzes the internal short-circuit behavior of an overdischarged secondary lithium-ion cell (OD-cell) under subsequent charging conditions. The results revealed that Cu ions dissolved from the anode Cu substrate during overdischarge were initially deposited on the cathode, migrated back to the anode, and deposited there during subsequent charging. These Cu deposits on the anode maintained their shape throughout normal charge–discharge cycles. Post-charging destructive analysis of the OD-cells revealed that the morphology of the Cu deposits on the anode surface varied significantly with the charging current. Cu formed coarse spherical particles at low currents (< 0.2 C-rate). As the current increased, a mixture of spherical and dendritic structures appeared. Only dendritic structures were observed above a certain threshold (> 3 C-rate). The leakage currents in OD-cells charged at various rates were measured to calculate their internal short-circuit resistance (ISR), and the relationship between Cu morphology and self-discharge was investigated. The “ISR decrease rate” was defined to compare the calculated ISR with the ISR of a normal cell, which was used as an indicator of the internal short circuit of the cell. The OD-cells charged at low currents (< 0.2 C-rate) maintained an ISR similar to that of normal cells (ISR decrease rate < 10%) with minimal self-discharge. However, high-current charging (> 3 C-rate) significantly reduced the ISR (decrease rate of > 97%) and introduced severe self-discharge. These findings suggest that high-rate charging immediately after overdischarge may exacerbate the internal short circuit and self-discharge owing to Cu-bridge formation.

Physical viability of [formula omitted] gravity corrected charged anisotropic solutions

This article explores the impact of charge on the properties of relativistic compact star candidates exhibiting anisotropic distribution in f(Q) gravity, where Q represents a nonmetricity. A specific model of this gravitational theory is considered to simplify the system and establish the precise field equations that regulate the interaction between matter and geometry. Analysis of the static spherical symmetric structures is conducted by considering the non-singular feasible solutions. The Darmois constraints are used to determine the unknown constants in the metric coefficients. We explore different physical characteristics in the interior of charged compact stars to check their viability. Sound velocity and adiabatic index techniques are employed for stability state analysis. Proposed charged stars are determined to be both viable and stable in this theoretical framework.

Sesamol Loaded Silver Nanoparticles Gel Engineered for Wound Healing via Topical Delivery: Optimization In vitro and Ex vivo Evaluation.

The current investigation involved the development and application of a topical treatment for wound healing for sesamol loaded into the silver nanoparticles (SML-AgNPs). SML-AgNPs were produced through the application of microwave technique. The SML-AgNPs were further optimized utilizing a Box-Behnken design (BBD). The Opt-SML-AgNPs formulation that was optimized demonstrated a particle size of 160.49 ± 1.11 nm, a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.241 ± 0.54, a zeta potential of -21.09 ± 0.88 mV, and an efficiency of 84.19 ± 1.19%. The morphology of the Opt-SML-AgNPs reveals a spherical structure. The Opt-SML-AgNPs exhibit a higher in vitro drug release rate as compared to the SML suspension. The Opt-SML-AgNPs were incorporated into the carbopol gel (Opt-SML-AgNPG) and evaluated for various parameters. The skin permeation investigation revealed a twofold increase for the Opt-SML-AgNPG formulation when compared to the SML-conventional gel formulation. This finding indicates a prolonged release pattern and an enhanced permeability profile. The Opt-SML-AgNPs formulation exhibited a higher level of antioxidant activity when compared to the SML solution which is beneficial for wound healing. In conclusion, the Opt-SML-AgNPG exhibits considerable potential in effectively penetrating the deeper dermal layers. Therefore, it may be considered that they possess the potential to serve as a suitable nanocarrier to administer topical delivery in the context of treating skin-related illnesses.

The oxidized hyaluronic acid hydrogels containing paeoniflorin microspheres regulates the polarization of M1/M2 macrophages to promote wound healing

Controlling excessive inflammation of acute wound is an effective means to shorten the healing time. Therefore, targeted control of the inflammatory response of the wound is a promising therapeutic strategy. In this study, paeoniflorin (Pae) was encapsulated in microspheres and combined with oxidized hyaluronic acid hydrogels to prepare the hydrogel loaded with Pae microspheres (Pae-MPs@OHA) to promote the healing of acute wounds in rats. The results demonstrated that the particle size of the Pae-MPs was 6.84 ± 0.51 μm, and the positive charge was 26.87 ± 1.51 mV. The uniform spherical structure of the Pae-MPs was observed by TEM. The Pae-MPs@OHA can maintain colloidal state in the range of 0.1–3.16 Hz. FTIR suggested that Pae could be effectively wrapped in MPs, and SEM indicated that the Pae-MPs@OHA had a uniform network pore structure. The Pae-MPs@OHA can realize the sustained release of Pae for 96 h. Biocompatibility experiments showed that the Pae-MPs@OHA hydrogels were safe and available. The Pae-MPs@OHA hydrogels can accelerate wound healing in rats. HE and masson staining suggested that the Pae-MPs@OHA could reduce inflammatory cell infiltration, promote re-epithelialization and collagen formation. The Pae-MPs@OHA could decrease the number of M1 and increase the number of M2 in macrophages, thus regulating the release of inflammatory factor TNF-α and IL-1β. The results of molecular docking and western blot results also confirmed that the Pae-MPs@OHA could reduce the expression of NF-κB, pNF-κB, NLRP3, ASC and pro-caspase-1. These findings suggest that the Pae-MPs@OHA has great potential for application in the treatment of inflammatory wound.

Biosynthesis, characterization of Ag2O nanoparticles for enhancement of antioxidant and photo degradation activities

Silver oxide (Ag2O) nanoparticles were synthesized via Biosynthesis methods using Croton macrotachyus leaf extract silver sulphate (Ag2SO4) was used as precursors and the extract was used in the reactions as reducing, stabilizing and capping agents which is a very easy and inexpensive synthesis method. Metal oxide nanoparticles characterized using UV–visible, TGA, Fourier transform infrared(FTIR),powder X-ray diffraction(XRD), X-ray photoelectron(XPS), and Scanning Electron Microscopy(SEM) with Energy Dispersive X-Ray(EDX) and Transmission Electron Microscopy(TEM), High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscope(HRTEM), and Selected Area Electron (SAED) which is used for determination of crystalline size, morphology,particle size and oxidation state with composition of elements in the sample. Metal oxide nanoparticles have a significant photo catalytic performance under visible light source confirmed that study supported Ag2O spherical structure, which exhibits enhanced photo catalytic activity and anti-oxidant activities as well as the size of the Ag2O nanoparticles was between 16 nm and 21 nm from the XRD(Scherrer equation),SEM & TEM) imaje software and Photo catalytic activity of Ag2O NPs were assessed against methylene blue (MB) dye degradation under natural sunlight illumination for 60 min. This sustainably photo degraded in direct solar irradiance with remarkable degradation percentage which is greater than 96.35 % and Scavenging activities Ag2O nanoparticles enhanced DDPH scavenging activities was 88 %

Confined growth of ultrasmall monodisperse gold nanoparticles in amino functionalized cellulose beads as effective catalysts for 4-nitrophenol reduction.

This study aims to prepare a monodisperse catalyst with a space-confined strategy, employing cellulose beads (CBs) as a carrier. Amino functionalized cellulose beads (ACBs) were prepared by grafting polyethyleneimine into the space of CBs via glutaraldehyde cross-linking. The in-situ reduction method was successfully employed to confine monodisperse ultrasmall gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) within the amino functionalized cellulose beads (AuNPs@ACBs) matrix. The AuCl4- ions were first immobilized on the amino substance (such as -NH3+/-NH2+, CN and CN) by chelation and electrostatic interaction. Then the Au(III) was reduced to Au(0) by electron transfer. The presence of amino groups in ACBs controls the size and dispersion of AuNPs. AuNPs@ACBs was used as a catalyst for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) to 4-aminophenol (4-AP), it reveals excellent catalytic activity, which can be ascribed to the smaller particle size of AuNPs (TOF = 7.86 min-1). The spherical structure of AuNPs@ACBs permits straightforward recovery from the aqueous solution after the reaction is completed, thus improving the reusability and catalytic stability. The catalytic efficiency of AuNPs@ACBs can still reach 64.7 % after 10 cycles. After more than 3000 min, the column continues to run without detecting 4-NP in the eluent, which is still working.

Green Synthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles Using Zingiber officinale Extracts to Investigate Their Antibacterial Potential.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as a significant global concern. To combat this growing threat, various strategies have been employed, including the use of plant extracts and the biosynthesis of nanoparticles (NPs). The current study was designed to evaluate the phytochemical analysis of ginger (Zingiber officinale) extracts, characterize the silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and to see their antibacterial potentials against multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacterial strains. The extracts were prepared and initially assessed for their phytochemical composition and antibacterial activity. Then, AgNPs were synthesized from these extracts at room temperature, and various analytical techniques, including UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), ATIR-FTIR, zeta sizer, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDXA), were used to characterize the NPs. After confirmation of prepared NPs, they were subjected to their antibacterial activity. HPLC analysis demonstrated the presence of eight phytoconstituents in organic ginger extracts. The absorption spectra of the silver suspension exhibited surface plasmon resonance peaks with maxima between 420 and 448 nm. Functional groups like C-H, N-H, OH, C-O-C, C=O, and C-O were identified in both the organic and aqueous extracts of Z. officinale, playing a key role in the formation of AgNPs, as characterized by ATR-FTIR analysis. Both ginger organic and aqueous extract synthesized AgNPs crystalline structure was shown in XRD analysis and the particle size distribution showed average diameter of 200.5 nm of AgNPs from aqueous extracts. Scanning Electron Microscopy displayed spherical structure and EDA results showed the percentage of elements in synthesized AgNPs using plant extracts. Most promising antibacterial activity was obtained against Escherichia coli ie 20.83±0.53 for 100µg/mL. The results of the current study showed that AgNPs synthesized from different ginger extracts have promising antibacterial properties and can be potential candidates for alternative treatment options for bacterial infections.

Cu2O@Cu-composed hollow spheres capable of Generating Rich reactive oxygen species for efficient photodynamic antibacterial application

Cuprous oxide (Cu2O), which has an appropriate band gap, is widely used as a marine antifouling biocide. This makes it increasingly valuable for photocatalytic antibacterial applications. Using crystal engineering technology to create Cu2O with tailored Cu2O/Cu interfaces and crystal planes can effectively enhance its performance but presents challenges. Herein, we report a simple wet chemical method for the controlled preparation of Cu2O@Cu hollow heterostructure. Experimental results demonstrate that the prepared composites exhibited highly efficient and broad-spectrum photocatalytic antibacterial effects against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, achieving 100% antibacterial efficiency under 10 min of irradiation, much more effective than the bulk Cu2O. Characterization results show that a hollow spherical structure consisted of fine Cu2O@Cu nanoparticles in their wall, and the generated interfaces facilitated the migration and separation of photogenerated charge carriers and promoted the formation of hydroxyl radicals with stronger oxidizing abilities. Meanwhile, the Cu outside layer of each Cu2O@Cu particle not only acted as a shield to protect Cu2O from corrosion but also served as an electron acceptor to efficiently transfer photogenerated electrons, thereby demonstrating highly effective and stable antibacterial performance. This study not only offers a valuable reference for developing highly efficient and universal photocatalytic materials but also provides insight into the chemical reaction in the photocatalytic antibacterial process.

How much do we know about nanobacteria?

Background/PurposeNanobacteria, known to date as self-replicating, nano-scale size organisms, smaller than bacteria. However, whether these are living organisms or agglomeration of biomolecules was one of the most controversial issues for many years. One of the reasons for debate is their lack of any genetic material. Although many studies investigate whether nanobacteria are the cause of diseases that affect human health, the discussions did not reach a conclusion. While most studies try to unravel the structures of nanobacteria, some studies investigated their effects on diseases. It has been proposed that pathological calcifications in kidney and dental pulp stones, as well as calcifications in heart valves and arteries, might be caused by nanobacteria. In this study, we investigated the effects and molecular structures of nanobacteria on the formation of atheroma plaques that cause atherosclerosis. MethodsNanobacteria grown from atheroma plaques in cell culture medium were analysed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Macromolecules of nanobacteria were separated by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and their sensitivity to protease and nucleases was tested. After determining their resistance to nucleases and susceptibility to proteinase K, protein profiles were determined by quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (QTOF-MS). ResultsIn SEM, spherical structures with sizes ranging from 80 to 900 nm were visualized. EDS analyses showed that very low concentration of phosphorus (P: 0.3 %) indicated absence of nucleic acids. The resistance was observed to proteases. Also, protein profiles indicated human proteins, with a high percentage of albumin. ConclusionIt was determined that nanobacteria derived from atheroma plaque were structures composed of human proteins. The findings confirmed the theory that nanobacteria are non-living structures formed by a mechanism called biocrystallization. Although the accumulation of nanobacteria may be a contributing element to the creation of atheroma plaque, it is possible that the etiological components that initiate the formation of the plaque are not nanobacteria.

Therapeutic efficacy of CRISPR RNA nanoparticles on cervical cancer disease using ultrasound elastography imaging

This work aimed to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) ribonucleic acid (RNA) nanoparticles (NPs) in the therapy of cervical cancer (CC) using ultrasound elastography imaging. Using poly(β-amino esters) (PBAE), CRISPR RNA NPs encapsulating Human Papillomavirus 16 (HPV16) E7, namely Poly(β-amino ester) (PBAE)/CRISPR16E7-GFP and PBAE/shRNA-16E7, were prepared. The characterization of these NPs was conducted using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and laser diffraction particle size analysis. The cytotoxicity of PBAE/CRISPR16E7-GFP and PBAE/shRNA-16E7 NPs on CC cell lines SiHa, HeLa, and CaSki was assessed using the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Sixty female Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were rolled into six groups randomlyas follows: the blank Ctrl group (Group A, no treatment), the model group (Group B, CC model), the pSpCas9-GFP plasmid group (Group C, CC model + pSpCas9-GFP), the PBAE/CRISPR-16E7 group (Group D, CC model + PBAE/CRISPR-16E7), the pSIREN-U6-shRNA-CMV-iRFP plasmid group (Group E, CC model + pSIREN-U6-shRNA-CMV-iRFP), and the PBAE/shRNA-16E7 group (Group F, CC model + PBAE/shRNA-16E7), each consisting of 10 rats. The impact of NPs on the expression levels (ELs) of HPV16E7 and RB1 proteins in tumor tissues was assessed using Western Blot (WB) analysis. Additionally, ultrasound elastography imaging was employed to analyze the strain ratio (SR) and shear wave velocity (SWV) in lesions of various rat groups. The results indicated that the PBAE/CRISPR16E7-GFP NPs exhibited a particle size of 125.64 ± 7.8 nm, a zeta potential of 19.17 ± 3.61 mV, and a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.281 ± 0.03. These NPs demonstrated a regular spherical structure with a compact morphology. The PBAE/shRNA-16E7 NPs displayed a particle size of 112.93 ± 9.1 nm, a zeta potential of 13.54 ± 1.39 mV, and a PDI of 0.185 ± 0.03. They exhibited a uniform distribution of spherical shape with regularity in size. The plasmids within PBAE/CRISPR16E7-GFP and PBAE/shRNA-16E7 NPs exhibited distinct trends of burst and sustained release. The viability of SiHa, HeLa, and CaSki cells remained unaffected by PBAE/CRISPR16E7-GFP NPs. At various mass ratios, neglectable differences (P > 0.05) were observed in cell viability of SiHa, HeLa, and CaSki cells treated with PBAE/CRISPR16E7-GFP and PBAE/shRNA-16E7 NPs relative to Ctrl group. Relative to Group B, both Groups C and E exhibited a drastic decrease in tumor volume, tumor mass, and HPV16E7 protein ELs (P < 0.05), whereas Groups D and F showed a notably greater reduction in tumor volume, tumor mass, and HPV16E7 protein ELs (P < 0.01). The HPV16E7 protein ELs, SR, and SWV values greatly increased (P < 0.001) in tumors of Group B rats while the EL of RB1 protein notably decreased (P < 0.001) versus Group A. Groups C and E demonstrated elevated HPV16E7 ELs, SR, and SWV values (P < 0.05), with a marked decrease in RB1 protein EL (P < 0.001). Group F exhibited a notable reduction in HPV16E7 protein levels, SR, and SWV values (P < 0.001).The CRISPRRNA NPs composed of PBAE encapsulating HPV16 E7, namely PBAE/CRISPR16E7-GFP and PBAE/shRNA-16E7 plasmids, demonstrated a significant role in CC therapy. These NPs hold potential application value in the treatment of HPV-related CC, indicating their importance in addressing this particular disease.

Tumor-Specific Protein Induced in Situ Self-Assembly of Peptide Drugs for Synergistic Mitochondria Disruption.

Mitochondria-targeted cancer therapy is an effective method for controlling tumor growth. However, the presence of repair mechanisms in tumor cells in response to mitochondrial damage poses significant challenges for treatment. By taking advantage of intracellular self-assembly technology, a peptide nanomaterial, RC-K-FX, that enters tumor cells in a monomeric form is designed. After binding to MUC1-C inside the cell membrane, RC-K-FX assembles into a spherical structure that stably encapsulates MUC1-C, inhibiting its dimerization and blocking the repair of stress-induced mitochondrial damage in tumor cells. Moreover, the self-assembled mitochondrial toxic peptide effectively destroys the mitochondria, and the loss of mitochondrial repair significantly increases tumor cytotoxicity by disrupting the redox balance, enhancing reactive oxygen species (ROS), inhibiting the nuclear factor (NF)-κB pathway, and suppressing the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. After intravenous administration, RC-G-FX accumulated at the tumor site, exhibiting improved anti-tumor effects and extending the overall survival of tumor-bearing mice. Therefore, the integration of the in situ self-assembly of peptide drugs and damage to mitochondrial repair mechanisms provides effective therapeutic options for malignancy.

Precisely Tailoring the Second Coordination Sphere of a Cobalt Single-Atom Catalyst for Selective Hydrogenation of Halogenated Nitroarenes.

The development of highly efficient and cost-effective nonprecious metal catalysts for the selective hydrogenation of halogenated nitroarenes is very appealing yet challenging. Here, we demonstrate that the hydrogenation activity and selectivity of Co single-atom catalyst (SAC) can be tuned by tailoring the structure of second coordination sphere via P doping. As revealed by synchrotron radiation-based X-ray absorption spectroscopy characterizations, such a P doping on N-coordinated Co SAC results in the unsymmetric Co-N4P1 coordination structure. With a combination of experimental characterizations and theoretical simulations, we find that tailoring the second coordination sphere can greatly improve H2 dissociation and product desorption. As a result, the Co-N4P1 SAC exhibits superior activity, selectivity and stability for the hydrogenation of halogenated nitroarenes to corresponding amines (20 examples, >99% yields) at 80 oC under 0.5 MPa H2 pressure, significantly outperforming most heterogeneous catalysts reported in the literature. We expect that this work opens a new avenue for the design of highly efficient nonprecious metal SACs for important hydrogenation reactions.

Precisely Tailoring the Second Coordination Sphere of a Cobalt Single‐Atom Catalyst for Selective Hydrogenation of Halogenated Nitroarenes

The development of highly efficient and cost‐effective nonprecious metal catalysts for the selective hydrogenation of halogenated nitroarenes is very appealing yet challenging. Here, we demonstrate that the hydrogenation activity and selectivity of Co single‐atom catalyst (SAC) can be tuned by tailoring the structure of second coordination sphere via P doping. As revealed by synchrotron radiation‐based X‐ray absorption spectroscopy characterizations, such a P doping on N‐coordinated Co SAC results in the unsymmetric Co‐N4P1 coordination structure. With a combination of experimental characterizations and theoretical simulations, we find that tailoring the second coordination sphere can greatly improve H2 dissociation and product desorption. As a result, the Co‐N4P1 SAC exhibits superior activity, selectivity and stability for the hydrogenation of halogenated nitroarenes to corresponding amines (20 examples, &gt;99% yields) at 80 oC under 0.5 MPa H2 pressure, significantly outperforming most heterogeneous catalysts reported in the literature. We expect that this work opens a new avenue for the design of highly efficient nonprecious metal SACs for important hydrogenation reactions.

Causes, influencing factors, and prediction modeling of crystallization blockage of tunnel drainage blind pipe in non-karst area

The complete functioning of the tunnel drainage system is critical in ensuring the stability of tunnel lining structures and safe operations. Therefore, the issue of crystalline blockage in the tunnel drainage system needs to be solved urgently. In this study, the formation mechanism of tunnel crystallization defects in non-karst areas was investigated, and the influencing factors of calcium ion dissolution of shotcrete were evaluated by field investigation. Also, the sampling analysis was carried out to determine the ionic composition and content of seepage water. The source and composition of crystallites were determined by X-ray diffraction (XRD), inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), and field-emission scanning electron microscope (SEM). The mechanism and role of pH in CaCO3 crystal formation were explored by simulation using MINTEQ 3.1 software. In addition, a new accelerated leaching test model was developed to examine the flow rate, concentration, and temperature effects on Ca2+ leaching rate in shotcrete. The analysis of water quality and crystal showed that the white and yellow crystals in the tunnel were calcite-type calcium carbonate, occurring as a paste. Micro-morphology of new crystals showed densely-distributed prismatic spherical and scaly crystal structure. The other parts were irregular squares, spindles, rhombuses, and other forms of scattered distribution. The Ca2+ originated from the shotcrete. The accelerated leaching test demonstrated that the optimal test conditions for the leaching rate of Ca2+ in shotcrete were a flow rate of 4 L/min, concentration of 5 mol/L, and temperature of 20 °C. Based on these findings, the prediction model of the Ca2+ leaching rate of shotcrete is established.