Transmission Electron Microscopy Analysis Research Articles

Multifunctional RGO-Gd2O3:Eu3+ nanocomposites for supercapacitor and biosensor application

This study successfully synthesized pristine RGO-Gd2O3:Eu3+ nanocomposites (NCs) using a hydrothermal method, as confirmed by X-ray diffraction and TEM analysis. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) demonstrated that RGO-Gd2O3:Eu3+ NCs exhibited a superior specific capacitance (Csp) of 340 Fg⁻1 at a scan rate of 2 mV s⁻1. Impressively, the synthesized nanocomposites displayed high energy and power densities of 41 Wh/kg and 30000 W/kg, respectively, along with excellent capacity retention (91.12 %) and Coulombic efficiency (95.77 %). Modified glassy carbon electrodes (MGCEs) fabricated using these NCs showed promising electrochemical responses for dopamine (DA) detection at pH∼7. These findings highlight the potential of the developed electrode for both supercapacitor applications and DA sensing.

Deformation characteristics of Ti-Ni-Fe based multiphase intermetallic: Experiments and atomistic simulation

This study deals with the development of Ti-Ni-Fe based multi-phase intermetallic having high strength with enhanced ductility and elucidation of their deformation characteristics. The intermetallic exhibited a compressive strain and strength of ⁓ 11 % and ⁓ 2.1± 0.112 GPa at room temperature (RT), respectively. MD simulation at RT showed a higher dislocation density in the DO24 phase, where most of the dislocations were found to be superpartials 13101̅0 and 1311̅00 separated by super intrinsic stacking faults (SISF), which was further corroborated with TEM analysis. It was found that despite its low volume fraction, DO24 phase governed the plastic deformation. Further, hot compression of Ti45Ni50Fe5 exhibited yield strength anomaly (YSA), where yield strength decreased from room temperature to 373 K followed by an increase at 473 K and 573 K. MD simulation of hot compression showed lower dislocation density (⁓300–551×10−6Å−2) for B2 matrix at all temperatures, indicating strength is predominantly governed by it. The dislocation density of B2 matrix was found to increase with temperature up to 373 K followed by a decrease at 473 K and 573 K. This difference in dislocation density has been attributed to the cross-slip of 121̅11 screw partials from {110} plane to {211} plane, resulting in the formation of dislocation lock that led to YSA behavior.

PREPARATION, CHARACTERIZATION, AND ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF NEWLY BIOSYNTHESIZED AMPICILLIN/CHITOSAN/SELENIUM NANOCOMPOSITE (AMP/CS/SENC) USING FUSARIUM FUJIKUROI PP794203 AGAINST MULTIDRUG-RESISTANT ESCHERICHIA COLI PP797596

Nowadays, nanobiotechnology is being used to restrict the development of bacterial resistance, particularly multidrug-resistant strains. Applications for selenium nanoparticles (Se NPs) are becoming progressively more widespread due to their broad bioactivity and antibacterial action, although few studies report their use as nanoparticles (NPs) in combination with antibiotics. The present study evaluated the combined effects of ampicillin (AMP), chitosan (CS) and Se NPs (AMP/CS/SeNC) against the multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli PP797596. Se NPs were biosynthesized using Fusarium fujikuroi (PP794203) in a green, safe, and fast method. AMP/CS/SeNC was characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Zeta potential, and transmission electron microscope (TEM) analyses. AMP/CS/SeNC revealed a characteristic peak at 280 nm. FTIR confirmed the presence of proteins as stabilizing and capping agents. Zeta potential refers to the high stability of AMP/CS/SeNC due to an intensive positive net surface charge (+44.3 mV). AMP/CS/SeNC appeared as crystalline-shaped NPs with an average particle size of 85.32 ± 1.8 nm. AMP/CS/SeNC showed strong antibacterial activity against the tested E. coli and displayed an inhibition zone of 21 ± 0.06 mm and a significantly minimum inhibitory concentration of 25 µg/ml. In addition, the prepared nanocomposite completely destroyed the tested E. coli cells, including the cytoplasmic membrane and cell wall, according to TEM studies. The current study provides a new nanocomposite that might be applied to different pharmaceutical products and an exceptional antibacterial potential against multidrug-resistant bacteria.

Fabrication and Evaluation of Polyacrylate Nanocomposites Embedded With Metal Oxides as Enhanced Multipurpose Nanocarriers for Long‐Term Anti‐Inflammatory and Amazing Antimicrobial Properties

ABSTRACTThe design of super‐antimicrobially active multipurpose nanocarriers as polymeric nanocomposites embedded with metal oxides with sustained drug release is beneficial in medical treatment for controlling inflammation and targeting a wide range of pathogenic microorganisms. Brilliant metal oxide nanoparticles (MOx) involving selenium dioxide, titanium dioxide, and vanadium pentoxide were well prepared in good yields, and their morphologies and structures were specified. Then they were embedded in copolymeric nanocomposites through in situ microemulsion polymerization of (E)‐2‐cyano‐N‐cyclohexyl‐3‐(dimethylamino)acrylamide (CHAA) with methyl methacrylate (MMA), dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA), and acrylic acid (AA). In addition, ibuprofen was then loaded into the synthesized polymers and their nanocomposites to achieve high drug entrapment efficiency EE%, and its release behavior was studied in various simulated fluids. The produced drug‐loaded polymers and their nanocomposites were characterized using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), transmission electron microscope (TEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TG). Well‐defined nanospheres of polymeric‐metal oxide nanocomposites were generated in a size range of 50 nm, with ibuprofen loaded at a high encapsulation efficiency of approximately 97%. In vitro drug release was inspected for the polymer and its nanocomposites revealing that the presence of metal oxide nanoparticles resulted in prolonged and sustained release behavior for wound dressing. The antimicrobial study based on the zone of inhibition against various pathogenic microorganisms showed excellent activity against Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Helicobacter pylori, and Candida albicans. These findings validate the potential of these nanocomposites to serve as a viable upcoming antimicrobial agent for the treatment of human ailments.

Self-adjusting voxelated electrochemical three-dimensional printing of metallic microstructures

Abstract Microscale metallic structures enhanced by additive manufacturing technology have attracted extensive attention especially in microelectronics and electromechanical devices. Meniscus-confined electrodeposition (MCED) advances microscale 3D metal printing, enabling simpler fabrication of superior metallic microstructures in air without complex equipment or post-processing. However, accurately predicting growth rates with current MCED techniques remain challenging, which is essential for precise structure fabrication and preventing nozzle clogging. In this work, we present a novel approach to electrochemical 3D printing that utilizes a self-adjusting, voxelated method for fabricating metallic microstructures. Diverging from conventional voxelated printing which focuses on monitoring voxel thickness for structure control, this technique adopts a holistic strategy. It ensures each voxel’s position is in alignment with the final structure by synchronizing the micropipette’s trajectory during deposition with the intended design, thus facilitating self-regulation of voxel position and reducing errors associated with environmental fluctuations in deposition parameters. The method’s ability to print micropillars with various tilt angles, high density, and helical arrays demonstrates its refined control over the deposition process. Transmission electron microscopy analysis reveals that the deposited structures, which are fabricated through layer-by-layer (voxel) printing, contain nanotwins that are widely known to enhance the material’s mechanical and electrical properties. Correspondingly, in situ scanning electron microscopy (SEM) microcompression tests confirm this enhancement, showing these structures exhibit a compressive yield strength exceeding 1 GPa. The indentation tests provided an average hardness of 3.71 GPa, which is the highest value reported in previous work using MCED. The resistivity measured by the four-point probe method was (1.95 ± 0.01) × 10−7 Ω·m, nearly 11 times that of bulk copper. These findings demonstrate the considerable advantage of this technique in fabricating complex metallic microstructures with enhanced mechanical properties, making it suitable for advanced applications in microsensors, microelectronics, and micro-electromechanical systems.

An Oxygen‐Self‐Produced Nanoplatform Based on MnO2 for Relieving Hypoxia

AbstractManganese dioxide (MnO2) nanoparticles are increasingly recognized for their potential in biomedical applications, particularly in the realm of hypoxic cancer therapy, due to their unique physicochemical characteristics. This investigation introduces a novel, template‐free synthesis strategy. The reducing groups inherent in bovine serum albumin (BSA) facilitate a redox reaction with potassium permanganate (KMnO4), while the abundance of functional groups in BSA is instrumental in the formation of MnO2. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis has characterized the synthesized MnO2 nanoparticles, termed BM NPs, as spherical particles with a mean diameter of 210 nm and zeta potential of −40.1 mV measured by dynamic light scattering (DLS). The Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectrum of BM NPs exhibits the characteristic peak of MnO2 at 1113 cm−1 and 620 cm−1. Furthermore, the elemental composition of BM NPs has been ascertained through energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX) elemental mapping analysis. Though concentration of BM NPs up to 200 μg/mL, the survival rate of 4T1 cells remained approximately 75 %. Given that BM NPs at a concentration of 100 μg/mL significantly alleviate cellular hypoxia, the high oxygen‐generating capacity of these nanoparticles is proved, suggesting their suitability as a drug delivery system, especially in the context of hypoxic tumor microenvironments.

Antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cytotoxicity potentials of green-synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles using the aqueous extract of Helichrysum cymosum

The current research involved the synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) using an aqueous extract of Helichrysum cymosum shoots, and subsequent characterization via different analytical methods, such as UV–Vis spectroscopy, Scanning electron microscope (SEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Transmission electron microscope (TEM), and zeta potential. The biological effects of the ZnO-NPs were then tested against C3A hepatocyte cells and L6 myocyte cell lines via series of analysis, including cytotoxicity, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic effect via enzymatic inhibition. The UV–Vis analysis showed a maximum absorption spectrum at 360, and the TEM analysis reveals a spherical and hexagonal structures, with an average dimension of 28.05–58.3 nm, and the XRD reveals a crystalline hexagonal structure. The zeta potential evaluation indicated that the ZnO-NPs are relatively stable at − 20 mV, and the FTIR analysis identified some important functional group associated with phenolics, carboxylic acid, and amides that are responsible for reducing and stabilizing the ZnO-NPs. The synthesized ZnO-NPs demonstrated cytotoxic effects on the cell lines at higher concentrations (125 µg/mL and 250 µg/mL), complicating the interpretation of the results of the inflammatory and antioxidant assays. However, there was a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the inhibitions of pancreatic lipase, alpha-glucosidase, and alpha-amylase, indicating beneficial antidiabetic effects.

Metal–Organic Framework-Derived CeO2/Gold Nanospheres in a Highly Sensitive Electrochemical Sensor for Uric Acid Quantification in Milk

In this work, CeBTC (a cerium(III) 1,3,5-benzene-tricarboxylate), was used as a precursor for obtaining CeO2 nanoparticles (nanoceria) with better sensor performances than CeO2 nanoparticles synthesized by the solvothermal method. Metal–organic framework-derived nanoceria (MOFdNC) were functionalized with spheric gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) to further improve non-enzymatic electrode material for highly sensitive detection of prominent biocompound uric acid (UA) at this modified carbon paste electrode (MOFdNC/AuNPs&amp;CPE). X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis were used for morphological structure characterization of the obtained nanostructures. Cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, both in an [Fe(CN)6]3−/4− redox system and uric acid standard solutions, were used for the characterization of material electrocatalytic performances, the selection of optimal electrode modifier, and the estimation of nature and kinetic parameters of the electrode process. Square-wave voltammetry (SWV) was chosen, and the optimal parameters of technique and experimental conditions were established for determining uric acid over MOFdNC/AuNPs&amp;CPE. Together with the development of the sensor, the detection procedure was optimized with the following analytical parameters: linear operating ranges of 0.05 to 1 µM and 1 to 50 µM and a detection limit of 0.011 µM, with outstanding repeatability, reproducibility, and stability of the sensor surface. Anti-interference experiments yielded a stable and nearly unchanged current response with negligible or no change in peak potential. After minor sample pretreatment, the proposed electrode was successfully applied for the quantification of UA in milk.

Surface iron concentration gradient: A strategy to suppress Mn3+ Jahn-Teller effect in lithium manganese iron phosphate

To address the low energy density of LiFePO4 (LFP) for electric vehicles and high-voltage energy storage, LiMn0.5Fe0.5PO4 (LMFP) provides a potential solution but faces performance degradation due to Mn3+-induced Jahn-Teller distortion and Mn ion dissolution during cycling. This study proposes a surface engineering strategy to enhance LMFP’s electrochemical performance by increasing surface iron concentration and reducing manganese content, based on the electronic differences between Mn3+ and Fe3+ in MO6 octahedra. Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations confirmed the viability of this approach by analyzing volume changes and binding energies with HF during charging. Guided by DFT, an LMFP@LFP/C material was synthesized with a high-iron-concentration surface layer (∼2 nm), as observed through AC-STEM. Post-cycling TEM analysis and corrosion simulations demonstrated that LMFP@LFP/C suppresses Mn ion dissolution and stabilizes the crystal lattice compared to unmodified LMFP/C. Electrochemical tests showed that LMFP@LFP/C has superior electronic conductivity and faster lithium-ion diffusion. It delivered an initial discharge capacity of 150.82 mAh g−1 at 0.1C, surpassing LMFP/C (147.65 mAh g−1). At 1C, LMFP@LFP/C retained 95.85 % of its capacity after 500 cycles, significantly outperforming LMFP/C (74.18 %). This surface modification strategy advances phosphate-based cathode materials for electric vehicles and renewable energy applications.

Graphene oxide, starch, and kraft lignin bio-nanocomposite controlled-release phosphorus fertilizer: Effect on P management and maize growth

This study focuses on the synthesis and practical application of bio-nanocomposite films made from a mixture of starch (ST) and Kraft lignin (KL) with graphene oxide (GO) nanoparticles. FTIR, XRD, Raman, SEM, and TEM analysis confirmed the synthesis's success of GO. The bio-nanocomposites were used as advanced coatings for triple superphosphate (TSP) fertilizers, and their implications for maize (Zea mays L.) plant growth were examined. Incorporating GO into the composite matrix is a significant accomplishment of this study, as demonstrated by the noticeable changes observed in the FTIR spectra, indicating consequent structural changes. Morphological analyses conducted by SEM reveal changes in the surface characteristics of the ST/KL films, providing essential information about the structural details of the bio-nanocomposite. The utilization of precision-coated TSP fertilizers leads to a significant enhancement in mechanical strength, as demonstrated by the improved crush resistance. Furthermore, these formulations guarantee a gradual release of phosphorus, showcasing their potential for efficient nutrient management in agricultural settings. The study examines the practical application of coated TSP fertilizers in agriculture and their positive effects on various growth parameters of Maize (Zea mays L.) plants. Using these fertilizers promotes sustainable and efficient agricultural practices, contributing to developing innovative agrochemical solutions.

Enhanced antimicrobial efficacy of hydroxyapatite-based composites for healthcare applications

Hydroxyapatite (HAp) and hydroxyapatite-based materials show promising potential in the healthcare sector due to their distinctive properties such as biocompatibility, antimicrobial efficacy, non-toxicity, and robust mechanical characteristics. This makes HAp materials play an important role in hindering infection spreading in healthcare provider institutions. This study assesses the antimicrobial efficacy of the developed hydroxyapatite-based composites incorporating copper, zinc, and silver nanoparticles. The synthesized HAp and its modified composite variants (Cu/HAp, Zn/HAp, and Ag/HAp) with varying ratios ranging from 0 to 15% (wt) were characterized using XRD, XPS, SEM, and TEM analyses. Furthermore, the antibacterial and antifungal properties of the synthesized HAp and HAp-based composites were evaluated. The antibacterial effectiveness of the HAp and its composites was evaluated using a modified disc diffusion test, where the resulting inhibition zones on the agar surface were observed. All the HAp and HAp-based composites (HAp, Cu/HAp, Zn/HAp, and Ag/HAp materials) elicited in the formation of inhibitory zones. The most substantial inhibition values were observed for the 5% Ag/HAp formulation, with values of 19.7 and 13.8, against E. coli and S. aureus, respectively. The 5% Ag/HAp concentration may strike an ideal balance, providing high antimicrobial activity without adverse effects on biocompatibility or material stability. These findings underscore the recommendation of the proposed HAp-based composites for infection control measures through their application on medical instruments, textiles, healthcare personnel attire, and patient garments.

Preparation of transferrin-modified IR820-loaded liposomes and its effect on photodynamic therapy of breast cancer

ObjectiveTo prepare and characterize transferrin (Tf)-modified liposomes (Lipo) encapsulating the photosensitizing agent neoindocyanine green (IR820), and to investigate their effects on breast cancer 4T1 cells as well as in a breast cancer mouse model.MethodsPhotosensitive liposomes, IR820@Lipo and Tf-IR820@Lipo, were synthesized using thin film dispersion, with encapsulation efficiency assessed via UV detection. The physicochemical properties were analyzed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and particle size analysis. Uptake by breast cancer 4T1 cells was evaluated through confocal laser scanning microscopy and flow cytometry, while cell proliferation inhibition was measured using the CCK8 assay. Differences in intracellular fluorescence intensity were utilized to assess drug aggregation in vivo through small animal imaging techniques. The anticancer efficacy and potential side effects of the formulations were examined through pharmacodynamic studies conducted in vivo.ResultsThe mean particle sizes of IR820@Lipo and Tf-IR820@Lipo were found to be 84.30 ± 15.66 nm and 116.20 ± 14.68 nm respectively, with zeta potentials of −8.21 ± 2.06 mV for IR820@Lipo and −5.23 ± 1.19 mV for Tf-IR820@Lipo; TEM revealed that the liposomes exhibited a spheroid morphology with uniform distribution across samples; encapsulation efficiencies reached 86.38 ± 0.99% for IR820@Lipo and an impressive 93.81 ± 1.06% for Tf-IR820@Lipo; notably, Tf-IR820@Lipo significantly inhibited proliferation while promoting apoptosis of the 4T1 cells upon laser irradiation; reactive oxygen species (ROS) detection indicated enhanced fluorescence intensity within the treated cells under light exposure when utilizing both formulations; in vivo experiments demonstrated tumor accumulation of both IR820@Lipo and Tf-IR820@Lipo, indicating effective tumor targeting within a breast cancer mouse model; pharmacodynamic assessments revealed that Tf-IR820@Lipo exhibited superior inhibitory effects against breast cancer without causing liver or kidney dysfunctions in mice nor presenting significant toxic side effects overall.ConclusionGiven its high targeting capability, potent efficacy, and low toxicity profile, Tf-IR820@Lipo holds promise as a novel therapeutic agent for breast cancer treatment when combined with photodynamic therapy (PDT), potentially offering new avenues for patient management.

Exploring the correlation between variants selection and applied stress in IN718 through transmission electron microscopic analysis

Both tensile and rupture strength of Inconel 718 (IN718) are influenced by the morphology and volume fraction of γ′′ precipitates. This study investigated the preferrable coarsening behaviors of γ′′ precipitation affected by applied stress during aging. Neutron diffraction reveals the clear presence of {004}, {204}and {116} peaks of the γ′′ precipitates in the specimens aged under 300 MPa, compared to the one without stress. Scanning Electron Microscopy and Electron Backscatter Diffraction analyses have demonstrated that the stress applied promote a selective alignment of the γ′′ precipitates, to the detriment of alternative variants. The growth of preferential variants is correlated with the angle between the stress direction and the orientation of face-centered cubic nickel matrix. Crystals adhere to this pattern with misorientation angles within 15° for the {100}γ, {110}γ, {111}γ, and {311}γ planes. Transmission electron microscopy observations coupled with growth free energy calculations have elucidated that the central region of the variants experiences tensile stress exerted by the matrix under applied stress. Concurrently, the energetic barrier at the variant tips is notably reduced. This energetic disparity accounts for the observed preferential growth of variants along their axial direction.

Corrosion behaviors of Ni-based GH3625 alloy in molten solar salt

The high-temperature corrosion behavior of GH3625 alloy was investigated in molten solar salt (NaNO3/KNO3 (60/40 mass %)) under an argon atmosphere. The dynamic corrosion rate increased with rising temperature, from 4.3 to 21.6 μm/y. Through the sophisticated sample preparation on the oxidation layer using FIB technology, and the fine characterization using TEM analysis, the corrosion type shows no influence on the oxide types. Meanwhile, the oxidation layers were discovered to be constituted by the Cr2O3 particles in the matrix, a depleted region of Cr, a Cr2O3 layer, a layer consisting of NiO and Cr2O3 particles, and a dense NiO layer from the matrix to the outer layer. The Cr2O3 was found to form before NiO. The NiO was confirmed to protect the alloy during the corrosion process. A narrow depletion zone of Cr was discovered. The silicon was indicated to be harmful to the corrosion resistance. This work provides insight into the corrosion mechanism of GH3625 in molten solar salt.

Spherical magnetic MgO-CeO2-Fe3O4@JB heterojunction for enhanced photodegradation of pesticide and complex anionic dyes: Understanding the degradation process and diverse water systems

Clothianidin (CLO) is a widely utilized pesticide recognized as an emerging pollutant capable of contaminating surface and subsurface water sources. Utilizing nanoparticles for photodegradation is a very ecological and cost-effective method for water treatment. This study involves the creation of a MgO-CeO2-Fe3O4@JB (Jute-Biochar) heterojunction with a mesoporous structure using hydrothermal process. The purpose of this design is to explore its potential for photocatalytic applications. PXRD (Powder X-ray Diffraction), FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared), UV–DRS (Ultraviolet–Visible Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy), PL (Photoluminescence), TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy), EDX (Energy Dispersive X-ray), XPS (X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy), VSM (Vibrating Sample Magnetometry), BET (Brunauer Emmett Teller), and SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) analysis confirmed the formation of a mesoporous MgO-CeO2-Fe3O4@JB heterojunction with preferred interface between MgO, CeO2, and Fe3O4 phases, extending the light-absorption insights to 700 nm. The photocatalytic performance of MgO-CeO2-Fe3O4@JB heterojunction was evaluated under visible-light using CLO as the target molecule. The degradation performances of CLO on MgO-CeO2-Fe3O4@JB were determined to be 95.24 ± 1.18 % after 35 min of exposure to light. The calculated rate constants for the degradation of CLO in presence of light using the MgO-CeO2-Fe3O4@JB composite were determined to be 0.0924 min−1. Furthermore, two complex dyes, Niagara Blue (NB) and Reactive Red (RR), photodegrade to 99.45 ± 1.24 % and 97.23 ± 1.41 % within 25 and 30 min, respectively. The excellent photocatalytic characteristics of the MgO-CeO2-Fe3O4@JB heterojunction were suggested to be primarily caused by the larger photo-response, aligned band-structure, and useful use of the photo-induced charge carriers of the photocatalyst. In addition, the recycling experiments have verified the exceptional photostability of the MgO-CeO2-Fe3O4@JB photocatalyst due to incorporation of nanoparticles into the biochar matrix. This leads to a synergistic mechanism for effectively eliminating these pollutants.

Virus-like Particles vaccine based on co-expression of G5 Porcine rotavirus VP2-VP6-VP7 induces a powerful immune protective response in mice

Porcine rotavirus (PoRV), a member of the Reoviridae family, constitutes a principal etiological agent of acute diarrhea in piglets younger than eight weeks of age, and it is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality within the swine industry. The G5 genotype rotavirus strain currently predominates in circulation. To develop a safe and effective porcine rotavirus vaccine, we generated an insect cell-baculovirus expression system, and successfully expressed these three viral proteins and assembled them into virus-like particles (VLPs) co-displaying VP2, VP6, and VP7. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis revealed that the VP2-VP6-VP7 VLPs exhibited a "wheeled" morphology resembling that of native rotavirus particles, with an estimated diameter of approximately 65nm. To evaluate the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of these VP2-VP6-VP7 VLPs, we immunized BALB/C mice with four escalating doses of the VLPs, ranging from 5 to 40μg of VLP protein per dose. ELISA-based assessments of PoRV-specific antibodies and T cell cytokines, including IL-4, IL-2, and IFN-γ, demonstrate that immunization with VP2-VP6-VP7 VLPs can effectively elicit both humoral and cellular immune responses in mice, resulting in a notable induction of neutralizing antibodies. On days 4, 6, 8, and 10 post-infection (dpi), the VLP-vaccinated group exhibited significantly reduced levels of PoRV RNA copy numbers when compared to the PBS controls. Histological examination of the duodenum, ileum, and kidneys revealed that VP2-VP6-VP7 VLPs provided effective protection against PoRV induced intestinal injury. Collectively, these findings indicate that the VLPs generated in this study possess strong immunogenicity and suggest the considerable promise of the VLP-based vaccine candidate in the prevention and containment of Porcine Rotavirus infections.

Resveratrol promotes mitophagy via the MALAT1/miR-143-3p/RRM2 axis and suppresses cancer progression in hepatocellular carcinoma

ObjectiveResveratrol (Res) is a promising anticancer drug against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but whether its anti-HCC effects implicate mitophagy remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to explore the specific role of Res in mitophagy and the related mechanisms during the treatment of HCC. MethodsHepG2 cells and tumor-grafted nude mice were used to investigate the effects of low-, middle- and high-dose of Res on HCC progression and mitophagy in vitro and in vivo, respectively. A series of approaches including cell counting kit-8, flow cytometry, wound healing and transwell assays were used to evaluate tumor cell functions. Transmission electron microscopy, immunofluorescence and Western blotting analysis were used to assess mitophagy. Mitochondrial oxygen consumption rate, reactive oxygen species and membrane potential were used to reflect mitochondrial function. After disrupting the expression of metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1), miR-143-3p, and ribonucleoside reductase M2 (RRM2), the effects of the MALAT1/miR-143-3p/RRM2 axis on cell function and mitophagy under Res treatment were explored in vitro. Additionally, dual-luciferase reporter and chromatin immunoprecipitation were used to confirm interactions between target genes. ResultsRes significantly inhibited the proliferation and promoted apoptosis of HCC cells in vitro, while significantly suppressing tumor growth in a dose-dependent manner and inducing mitophagy and mitochondrial dysfunction in vivo. Interestingly, MALAT1 was highly expressed in HCC cells and its knockdown upregulated miR-143-3p expression in HCC cells, which subsequently inhibited RRM2 expression. Furthermore, in nude mice grafted with HCC tumors and treated with Res, the expression of MALAT1, miR-143-3p and RRM2 were altered significantly. In vitro data further supported the targeted binding relationships between MALAT1 and miR-143-3p and between miR-143-3p and RRM2. Therefore, a series of cell-based experiments were carried out to study the mechanism of the MALAT1/miR-143-3p/RRM2 axis involved in mitophagy and HCC; these experiments revealed that MALAT1 knockdown, miR-143-3p mimic and RRM silencing potentiated the antitumor effects of Res and its activation of mitophagy. ConclusionRes facilitated mitophagy in HCC and exerted anti-cancer effects by targeting the MALAT1/miR-143-3p/RRM2 axis.

Synergetic effect of edge states and point defects to tune ferromagnetism in CVD-grown vertical nanostructured MoS2: A correlation between electronic structure and theoretical study

Room-temperature ferromagnetism (RTFM) exhibited by nanostructured two-dimensional semiconductors for spintronics applications is a fascinating area of research. The present work reports on the correlation between the electronic structure and magnetic properties of defect-engineered nanostructured MoS2 thin films. Low-energy light and heavy-mass ion irradiation have been performed to create defects and tune the magnetic properties of MoS2. Vertical nanosheets with edge termination in the pristine sample have been examined by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Deterioration of vertical nanosheets is observed in low-energy Ar+ and Xe+ irradiated samples. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) analysis confirmed the sample’s crystallinity and the (002) plane formation. An appreciably high magnetization value of 1.7emu/g was observed for edge-oriented nanostructured pristine MoS2 thin films, and it decreased after ion irradiation. From X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) data, it is evident that, due to oxygen incorporation in the sulfur vacancy sites, Mo 5+ and 6+ states increase after ion irradiation. The density functional theory (DFT) calculations suggest that the edge-oriented spins of the prismatic edges of the vertical nanosheets are primarily responsible for the high magnetic moment in the pristine film, and the edge degradation and reduction in sulfur vacancies by the incorporation of oxygen upon irradiation result in a decrease in the magnetic moment.

Arsenic sequestration by granular coal gangue functionalized with magnesium: Effects of magnesium and insight of arsenic sorption mechanisms

Leveraging natural waste materials for inorganic contaminant removal in solution offers a novel approach to boost resource recycling and foster sustainable development by enhancing waste use. This research advanced the modest arsenite (As[III]) removal capacity of raw coal gangue through a magnesium-soaking and calcination-based surface modification. Batch experiments showed As(III) removal efficiency was improved from 39.8% to 89.9% after modification, independent of initial pH levels. The Langmuir model estimated the maximum sorption capacity of 0.979 mg/g for the modified coal gangue. Physicochemical analyses confirmed that the modification increased the surface area, pore volume and size of the coal gangue. Furthermore, SEM, and subsequent TEM and SAED analyses identified acicular arsenic trioxide (As2O3) on the modified gangue, enhancing As(III) removal. Variations in sorption kinetics hinted at precipitation, likely due to AsO3 polymer chains formed by As(III)'s sorption onto Mg(OH)2, created from MgO hydration in aqueous conditions. Our findings show that coal gangue has potential applications in the development of sustainable methods for waste recycling.

Fabrication and electromagnetic wave absorption modulation of high-performance (TaNbTiV)₂AlC MAX phase

Electromagnetic (EM) wave technology is widely used in both military and civilian applications, increasing interest in EM wave absorption materials for information security and environmental protection. This study examines the synthesis and EM wave absorption properties of M-site compositional complex MAX phase (TaNbTiV)2AlC. Using Ta, Nb, Ti, V, Al, and graphite powders, pure (TaNbTiV)2AlC was synthesized at 1400 °C. SEM and EDS confirmed homogeneous elemental distribution and morphology, while TEM and SAED analyses revealed the atomic structure. EM wave absorption was tested using (TaNbTiV)2AlC/paraffin wax composites with varying (TaNbTiV)2AlC content in the 2–18 GHz range. The main attenuation mechanisms identified were interfacial polarization, dielectric loss, and conductive loss. Optimal absorption was achieved at 30 vol% (TaNbTiV)2AlC, with a reflection loss of −43.83 dB and an effective absorption bandwidth of 3.49 GHz. The study demonstrates that the control of establishing a “near-conductive network” of fillers could be advantageous in achieving optimal electromagnetic wave absorption performance using fillers possessing high electrical conductivity, such as MAX phase materials.