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The physical properties of charges and excitations in nanoscale materials are influenced both by the dielectric properties of the material itself and the surrounding environment. This non-local dielectric effect was first discussed in the context of molecules in solvents over a century ago. In this perspective, we discuss non-local dielectric effects in zero-dimensional, one-dimensional, and two-dimensional nanoscale systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plasmonic-driven photocatalysis is one of the most vibrant and promising field in nanoscience. Out of the various mechanisms known to activate chemical reactions in molecules interacting with optically excited nanostructures, the one involving production and transfer of Hot Carriers (HCs) is among the most relevant. Over the past decade, along with stunning advances on HCs control and manipulation, a variety of theoretical and computational strategies have been developed to model this phenomenon and explore its underlying physics. These techniques have provided comprehensive understandings of HCs life stages and dynamics, and allowed valuable insights on their role in photocatalysis. However, to date it is hard to extricate within the plethora of methods developed and the growing number of applications they found. The purpose of this review is to survey the approaches employed so far to model HCs photophysics, rationalizing and classifying the different studies in terms of modelization, theoretical approaches, and approximations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The careful arrangement of nanomaterials (NMs) holds promise for revolutionizing various fields, from electronics and biosensing to medicine and optics. This review delves into the intricacies of nano-assembly (NA) techniques, focusing on oriented-assembly methodologies and stimuli-dependent approaches. The introduction provides a comprehensive overview of the significance and potential applications of NA, setting the stage for review. The oriented-assembly section elucidates methodologies for the precise alignment and organization of NMs, crucial for achieving desired functionalities. The subsequent section delves into stimuli-dependent techniques, categorizing them into chemical and physical stimuli-based approaches. Chemical stimuli-based self-assembly methods, including solvent, acid–base, biomolecule, metal ion, and gas-induced assembly, are discussed in detail by presenting examples. Additionally, physical stimuli such as light, magnetic fields, electric fields, and temperature are examined for their role in driving self-assembly processes. Looking ahead, the review outlines futuristic scopes and perspectives in NA, highlighting emerging trends and potential breakthroughs. Finally, concluding remarks summarize key findings and underscore the significance of NA in shaping future technologies. This comprehensive review serves as a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners, offering insights into the diverse methodologies and potential applications of NA in interdisciplinary research fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porphyrias are rare, mostly inherited disorders resulting from altered activity of specific enzymes in the haem synthesis pathway that lead to accumulation of pathway intermediates. Photocutaneous symptoms occur when excess amounts of photoreactive porphyrins circulate in the blood to the skin, whereas increases in potentially neurotoxic porphyrin precursors are associated with neurovisceral symptoms. Current therapies are suboptimal and their mechanisms are not well established. As described here, emerging therapies address underlying disease mechanisms by introducing a gene, RNA or other specific molecule with the potential to cure or slow progression of the disease. Recent progress in nanotechnology and nanoscience, particularly regarding particle design and formulation, is expanding disease targets. More secure and efficient drug delivery systems have extended our toolbox for transferring specific molecules, especially into hepatocytes, and led to proof‐of‐concept studies in animal models. Repurposing existing drugs as molecular chaperones or haem synthesis inhibitors is also promising. This review summarizes key examples of these emerging therapeutic approaches and their application for hepatic and erythropoietic porphyrias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The researchers explored the free convective flow of a hybrid nanofluid in a vertical microchannel with a rectangular cross‐section. Notably, both channel walls were heated alternately, and a transverse magnetic field was applied across the channel. The channel walls had unique properties, one of which was nonslip and the other was exceedingly hydrophobic. The major purpose was to investigate the effects of magnetism and superhydrophobicity on important flow parameters. The differential equations in the investigation were solved, producing accurate results. The study yielded some significant discoveries. First, when heated, the magnetic parameter reduced skin friction on both sides. Second, in both heating conditions, the magnetic field reduced flow rate and velocity. The flow rates in the two reported situations were similar at a crucial temperature jump coefficient. Furthermore, for low‐temperature jump coefficients, heating the superhydrophobic side reduced the Nusselt number whereas heating the nonslip side had no magnetic effect. The percentage change in the value of Nusselt number and velocity decreases continuously with increase in nonlinear density variation with temperature (NDT) parameter and magnetic parameter. The percentage increases in the value of skin friction with increase in temperature jump and slip length but decrease in the percentage of skin friction for the effect of magnetic term and NDT parameter. As the NDT parameter increases, the velocity percentage rises to 50.59% when the superhydrophobic surface is heated and to 84.30% when the nonslip surface is heated. The temperature jump is statistically significant for the value of the Nusselt number and skin friction for the no‐slip surface condition. These discoveries have practical consequences for the design and management of both tiny and large‐scale systems, with possible applications in microfluidics, microelectronics, nanoscience, and nanotechnology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (NST) education is at the forefront of an emerging interdisciplinary frontier, ready to address global challenges. In this context, our research adopts a distinctive approach—using software applications in digital games to introduce young children to NST concepts and analyse resulting learning outcomes. The three-step research unfolds strategically, aiming to assess the effectiveness of two distinct digital technologies (computers and tablets) at an introductory level, influencing children's understanding of Nanotechnology concepts. One hundred fifty second-grade students, divided into experimental and control groups, participated in an exploration facilitated by the Test for the NANOtechnology Elementary Knowledge Assessment (TENANO). This tool meticulously measures the depth of children's knowledge about size, a fundamental aspect of NST. The experimental groups, especially the tablet group, significantly outperformed their post-test control counterparts. This marks a pioneering stride in early primary education. By leveraging children's familiarity with digital technology, this research harnesses the recent health crisis to advance NST education through interactive games, leaving a distinctive mark on early-primary NST education and paving the way for transformative educational methodologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The green synthesis of silver nanoparticles offers a non-toxic, eco-friendly, economical, and efficient solution against various microorganisms. The study aimed to investigate the utilization of cocoa bean shells for the production of silver nanoparticles through green synthesis, besides its characterization and evaluation against foodborne pathogens. To this end, total phenolic compounds, individual bioactive compounds, and antioxidant activity were evaluated in the aqueous extract of the cocoa bean shell. In addition, the size and stability of the silver nanoparticles were investigated (zeta potential and dynamic light scattering), morphology (scanning electron microscopy), chemical composition (mid-infrared spectroscopy), and their effectiveness against Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), Listeria monocytogenes (ATCC 19117), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 22923), Salmonella enteritidis (S64), Cronobacter sakazakii (ATCC 29004), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (ATCC 18883). The extract was rich in reducing agents and efficiently produced AgNPs with high surface area (74.51 ± 0.38 nm) and stability (− 17.97 ± 0.12 mV). The nanoparticles were also found to be effective against all tested pathogens, demonstrating the potential of agro-industrial waste to produce AgNPs for various industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the airways, posing a substantial health threat to a large number of people worldwide. Bronchodilators effectively alleviate symptoms of airway obstruction by inducing relaxation of the smooth muscles in the airways, thereby reducing breathlessness and enhancing overall quality of life. The drug targeting to lungs poses significant challenges; however, this issue can be resolved by employing nano- and micro-particles drug delivery systems. This review provides brief insights about underlying mechanisms of asthma, including the role of several inflammatory mediators that contribute to the development and progression of this disease. This article provides an overview of the physicochemical features, pharmacokinetics, and mechanism of action of particular groups of bronchodilators, including sympathomimetics, PDE-4 inhibitors (phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors), methylxanthines, and anticholinergics. This study presents a detailed summary of the most recent developments in incorporation of bronchodilators in nano- and micro-particle-based delivery systems which include solid lipid nanoparticles, bilosomes, novasomes, liposomes, polymeric nano- and micro-particles. Specifically, it focuses on breakthroughs in the categories of sympathomimetics, methylxanthines, PDE-4 inhibitors, and anticholinergics. These medications have the ability to specifically target alveolar macrophages, leading to a higher concentration of pharmaceuticals in the lung tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents the new development of a nanopositioning machine for a large operating range. The machine, called NPS6D200, provides Ø200 m m planar and 25 m m vertical travel range and applies a 6D closed loop control with all drive forces applied directly to the same moving part. The stage architecture evolves from an integrated planar direct drive which is extended by high precision vertical positioning capability. The setup of the machine and the characteristics of the different subsystems are presented together with investigations into the positioning performance that is achieved with the NPS6D200. In constant setpoint operation as well as in synchronized multiaxial motion tasks over three orders of magnitude, the system shows servo errors only in the low nanometer range and proves suitable as positioning platform for nanoscience applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Representations of science and technology, embodied as imaginaries, visions, and expectations, have become a growing focus of analysis. These representations are of interest to normative approaches to science and technology, such as Hermeneutic Technology Assessment and Responsible Innovation, because of their ability to modulate understandings of science and technology and to influence scientific and technological development. This article analyses the culture of participation underlying the NanoKOMIK project and the representations and meanings of (nano)science and (nano)technology communicated in the two nano-fiction comic books created as part of the project: Dayanne and Murillo. The power of nanoscience (2016) and NanoKOMIK #2 (2017). The article argues that despite NanoKOMIK's efforts to engage the public with (nano)science and (nano)technology, it reproduces non-binding modes of public participation and transmits socio-technical meanings that are instrumental in the social legitimisation of (nano)technology. More specifically, the analysis shows that NanoKOMIK's comic books, in addition to not problematising the risks and conveying an eminently positive view of nanotechnology, also communicate certain 'myth-conceptions' of scientific activity and its products. For example, they convey an individualistic and linear vision of research and innovation and an instrumentalist and neutral (or 'value-free') view of technology. These findings highlight the importance of critically analysing the 'cultures of participation' that characterise and reproduce 'participatory' or 'collaborative' projects and the representations of (nano)science and (nano)technology that they perpetuate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the use of photoswitchable compounds, specifically azoheteroarenes, which can be switched between two isomers by light. The author presents their research on arylazopyrazoles, a type of azoheteroarene, and describes their discovery of compounds with high thermal stability and tunable properties. The article highlights the potential applications of these compounds in various fields, particularly in photopharmacology, where light-addressable drugs could be developed. Overall, the research suggests that azoheteroaryl photoswitches have significant potential for optically addressable applications. [Extracted from the article]

Nanoscience, a pivotal field spanning multiple industries, including healthcare, focuses on nanomaterials characterized by their dimensions. These materials are synthesized through conventional chemical and physical methods, often involving costly and energy‐intensive processes. Alternatively, biogenic synthesis using bacteria, fungi, or plant extracts offers a potentially sustainable and non‐toxic approach for producing metal‐based nanoparticles (NP). This eco‐friendly synthesis approach not only reduces environmental impact but also enhances features of NP production due to the unique biochemistry of the biological systems. Recent advancements have shown that along with chemically synthesized NPs, biogenic NPs possess significant antimicrobial properties. The inherent biochemistry of bacteria enables the efficient conversion of metal salts into NPs through reduction processes, which are further stabilized by biomolecular capping layers that improve biocompatibility and functional properties. This mini review explores the use of bacteria to produce NPs with antimicrobial activities. Microbial technologies to produce NP antimicrobials have considerable potential to help address the antimicrobial resistance crisis, thus addressing critical health issues aligned with the United Nations Sustainability Goal #3 of good health and well‐being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we present the concept of flat-field capillary-assisted nanoparticle tracking analysis for the characterization of fast diffusing nano-objects. By combining diffusion confinement and spatially invariant illumination, i.e., flat-fields, within a fiber-interfaced on-chip environment, ultra-long trajectories of fast diffusing objects within large microchannels have been measured via diffraction-limited imaging. Our study discusses the design procedure, explains potential limitations, and experimentally confirms flat-field formation by tracking gold nanospheres. The presented concept enables generating flat-fields in a novel on-chip optofluidic platform for the characterization of individual nano-objects for fundamental light/matter investigations or applications in bioanalytics and nanoscale material science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurodegenerative diseases involve progressive neuronal death. Traditional treatments often struggle due to solubility, bioavailability, and crossing the Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB). Nanoparticles (NPs) in biomedical field are garnering growing attention as neurodegenerative disease drugs (NDDs) carrier to the central nervous system. Here, we introduced computational and experimental analysis. In the computational study, a specific IFPTML technique was used, which combined Information Fusion (IF) + Perturbation Theory (PT) + Machine Learning (ML) to select the most promising Nanoparticle Neuronal Disease Drug Delivery (N2D3) systems. For the application of IFPTML model in the nanoscience, NANO.PTML is used. IF-process was carried out between 4403 NDDs assays and 260 cytotoxicity NP assays conducting a dataset of 500,000 cases. The optimal IFPTML was the Decision Tree (DT) algorithm which shown satisfactory performance with specificity values of 96.4% and 96.2%, and sensitivity values of 79.3% and 75.7% in the training (375k/75%) and validation (125k/25%) set. Moreover, the DT model obtained Area Under Receiver Operating Characteristic (AUROC) scores of 0.97 and 0.96 in the training and validation series, highlighting its effectiveness in classification tasks. In the experimental part, two samples of NPs (Fe3O4_A and Fe3O4_B) were synthesized by thermal decomposition of an iron(III) oleate (FeOl) precursor and structurally characterized by different methods. Additionally, in order to make the as-synthesized hydrophobic NPs (Fe3O4_A and Fe3O4_B) soluble in water the amphiphilic CTAB (Cetyl Trimethyl Ammonium Bromide) molecule was employed. Therefore, to conduct a study with a wider range of NP system variants, an experimental illustrative simulation experiment was performed using the IFPTML-DT model. For this, a set of 500,000 prediction dataset was created. The outcome of this experiment highlighted certain NANO.PTML systems as promising candidates for further investigation. The NANO.PTML approach holds potential to accelerate experimental investigations and offer initial insights into various NP and NDDs compounds, serving as an efficient alternative to time-consuming trial-and-error procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental context: Plastic pollution is widespread and continues to be a major concern, both for the environment and human health. Identifying nanoplastics is challenging but is important to understand how they behave once in the environment. It is shown that a combination of single particle (SP) and single cell (SC) inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) can be used to quantify nanoplastics on a per cell basis after exposure to algal cells. The effects of plastic pollution on human health and the environment are not well known but there are significant concerns. Although research has increased in recent years, there remain many obstacles to the quantification of nanoplastics. This rapid communication demonstrates that combined single particle (SP)– and single cell (SC)–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) provide a novel means to quantify pre-formed core–shell metal–plastic composite nanoparticles when exposed to two freshwater algal cells, Cryptomonas ovata (C. ovata) and Cryptomonas ozolini (C. ozolini). It is shown that individual palladium plastic nanoparticles (Pd NPPs) exposed to algal cells form agglomerates in the cell suspension respectively consisting of 165 and 157 (±3.8) individual Pd NPPs for C. ozolini and C. ovata cells, and that the agglomerates are also cell-associated with 1.75–1.85 agglomerates per cell. Environmental context. Plastic pollution is widespread and continues to be a major concern, both for the environment and human health. Identifying nanoplastics is challenging but it is important to understand how they behave once in the environment. It is shown that a combination of single particle (SP)– and single cell (SC)–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) can be used to quantify nanoplastics on a per cell basis after exposure to algal cells. (Image credit: E. C. Bair.) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Tracer tests are an important tool for characterizing and monitoring subsurface reservoir properties. However, they are limited both because of the tracer molecules constraining factors such as irreversible adsorption, retention, and degradations, i.e. interaction processes of fluorophore molecule with surrounding media resulting in a large variation in transport properties. Elaborate tests utilizing more than one tracer to distinguish time or location of injection are complex and interpretation is ambiguous because each tracer interacts differently. In this study, we present an approach to increase tracer stability and enhance the transport uniformity of different tracers, thus making tests utilizing multiple tracers simpler and more feasible. We present this concept of tracer multiplicity by encapsulating an anionic, cationic or amphoteric fluorophore inside mesoporous silica nanoparticle carriers coated with a protective titania layer. Upon encapsulation, increased thermal resistance and drastically lowered sorption affinity towards quartz sand was detected in batch and flow-through experiments. An additional advantage of the presented nanoparticle tracers over molecular tracers is their modularity, which is demonstrated by surface modifications and application of additives that greatly reduce sorption and increase recovery rates in the flow experiments. With the here presented concept of tracer multiplicity, we introduce a new approach for colloidal tracer design that has the potential to expand and enhance measurable parameters, measurement accuracy and simplicity of analysis.

Ocular infirmities significantly influence a person's routine process by impairing vision to the point of blindness. Effective ocular drug administration with significant bioavailability is challenging due to physiology and defensive mechanisms, which is majorly due to inadequate epithelial permeability and quick removal of the drug from the eye after administration. Due to the numerous restrictions on drug distribution across the blood–retinal barrier, conventional medicines cannot provide definitive therapy for all ocular illnesses, making it a significant clinical issue. However, significant breakthroughs in the management of ocular disorders have been made possible by the use of biopolymeric drug transport with nanoscience. The use of biopolymers in ophthalmic medications has produced several positive effects, including safety, prolonged retention times, improved bioavailability, and controlled release via adhesion to epithelia. Moreover, therapeutic implementation of nanostructure materials, from diagnosis to therapy, has also received significant attention. This evolving biopolymer-based nanoscale drug delivery system has enhanced the drug's ability to pass through various ocular barriers with improvement in bioavailability. Among other beneficial characteristics, biodegradable polymers offer amended retention period and extended release. This review emphasizes the various biopolymer-based fabricated nano-formulations used to mitigate ocular infection. Biopolymer-based nano-formulations for targeted delivery of drugs against ocular infections [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since 2012, the National Nanoscience Teaching and Training Platform (NNPTTP), funded by the South African Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), has been responsible for overseeing Africa's first-ever master's in nanoscience program. For over a decade, the NNPTTP has seen the cooperation of four partner universities across South Africa, namely, the University of Johannesburg (UJ), University of the Free State (UFS), University of the Western Cape (UWC), and Nelson Mandela University (NMU), culminating in over 250 graduates trained in either nanophysics, nanochemistry, or nanobiology. Originally established to train professionals for a nanotechnology-based industry, both in South Africa and internationally, the program and platform has evolved into a testament to scientific collaboration. This paper discusses the program's framework, successes and challenges, related research, and future plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymer nanocomposites have been a rapidly expanding research topic for producing materials over the last few decades. In the previous two decades, there has been a significant scientific interest in nanoscience and nanotechnology. Nanomaterials' distinct features are related to quantum phenomena, greater surface area, and self-assembly. Quantum effects can begin to dominate matter's behaviour in the nanoscale, particularly at the lower end, affecting optical, electrical, and magnetic properties. Nanomaterials have evolved into nanocomposites with numerous applications. Its applications catapulted them to prominence in the field of material research. Because of their unique property combinations and design practicality, polymer nanocomposites are employed in sports equipment, wastewater treatment, the automobile industry, and biomedical applications. Even though they have numerous advantages, producing them in sufficient quantities and high quality is still one of the biggest challenges. During the last few decades, polymer nanocomposites have been a fast-developing research topic for material production. There has been a surge in scientific interest in nanoscience and nanotechnology during the last two decades. Nanomaterials have developed into nanocomposites, which have a wide range of uses. Its uses propelled them to the forefront of material research. Nanocomposite's physical, mechanical, barrier, flame retardancy, optical, dielectric, rheological, and thermal characteristics have been thoroughly researched. Their uses have also been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymer concentration and aging time of polymeric solutions are crucial factors that can influence their viscosity, playing an essential role in the fabrication of electrospun nanofibers. Based on this, herein we evaluated the impact of aging time (24 and 48 h) and pea starch concentration (10%, 20%, and 30%, wt/vol) on the polymeric solutions to produce electrospun nanofibers. Solutions were evaluated by rheology, electrical conductivity, and degree of substitution. The nanofibers were analyzed by morphology, size distribution, chemical nature, and thermal properties. The degree of substitution of starches varied from 1.17 to 1.56. Overall, electrical conductivity decreased with increasing starch concentration and aging time of the polymeric solutions. The use of 10% starch displayed a transition from capsules to fibers, while 20% and 30% starch were able to manufacture homogenous, cylindrical, and random nanofibers with diameters varying from 89 to 373 nm. A significant impact of viscosity was not observed; on the other hand, aging time increased the average diameter of nanofibers. Besides, the fabricated nanofibers showed a lower decomposition temperature than raw starch. The fabricated nanofibers have great potential as wall materials for the encapsulation of different compounds and applications in the biomedical and food sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advancement of nanoscience and material design in recent times has facilitated the creation of point-of-care devices for cancer diagnosis and biomolecule sensing. Exosomes (EXOs) facilitate the transfer of bioactive molecules between cancer cells and diverse cells in the local and distant microenvironments, thereby contributing to cancer progression and metastasis. Specifically, EXOs derived from cancer are likely to function as biomarkers for early cancer detection due to the genetic or signaling alterations they transport as payload within the cancer cells of origin. It has been verified that EXOs circulate steadily in bodily secretions and contain a variety of information that indicates the progression of the tumor. However, acquiring molecular information and interactions regarding EXOs has presented significant technical challenges due to their nanoscale nature and high heterogeneity. Colorimetry, surface plasmon resonance (SPR), fluorescence, and Raman scattering are examples of optical techniques utilized to quantify cancer exosomal biomarkers, including lipids, proteins, RNA, and DNA. Many optically active nanoparticles (NPs), predominantly carbon-based, inorganic, organic, and composite-based nanomaterials, have been employed in biosensing technology. The exceptional physical properties exhibited by nanomaterials, including carbon NPs, noble metal NPs, and magnetic NPs, have facilitated significant progress in the development of optical nanobiosensors intended for the detection of EXOs originating from tumors. Following a summary of the biogenesis, biological functions, and biomarker value of known EXOs, this article provides an update on the detection methodologies currently under investigation. In conclusion, we propose some potential enhancements to optical biosensors utilized in detecting EXO, utilizing various NP materials such as silicon NPs, graphene oxide (GO), metal NPs, and quantum dots (QDs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macrophages are well known for their involvement in the biocompatibility, as well as biodistribution, of nano(bio)materials. Although there are a number of rodent cell lines, they may not fully recapitulate primary cell responses, particularly those of human cells. Isolation of tissue-resident macrophages from humans is difficult and may result in insufficient cells with which to determine the possible interaction with nano(bio)materials. Isolation of primary human monocytes and differentiation to monocyte-derived macrophages may provide a useful tool with which to further study these interactions. To that end, we developed a standard operating procedure for this differentiation, as part of the Regulatory Science Framework for Nano(bio)material-based Medical Products and Devices (REFINE) project, and used it to measure the secretion of bioactive molecules from M1 and M2 differentiated monocytes in response to model nano(bio)materials, following an initial assessment of pyrogenic contamination, which may confound potential observations. The SOP was deployed in two partner institutions with broadly similar results. The work presented here shows the utility of this assay but highlights the relevance of donor variability in responses to nano(bio)materials. Whilst donor variability can provide some logistical challenges to the application of such assays, this variability is much closer to the heterogeneous cells that are present in vivo, compared to homogeneous non-human cell lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New nanostructures betokening new nanotechnology and nanoscience. In this work, novel one-dimensional (1D) Y2(Zr0.6Ti0.4)2O7:Eu tube-in-tube nanostructures were fabricated by a simple single-nozzle electrospinning method. The Y2(Zr0.6Ti0.4)2O7:Eu double-layered nanotube consisted of an outer tube with a diameter of 250–340 nm and an inner tube with a diameter of 80–110 nm. The wall thickness of the outer tube is ∼30 nm. The wall thickness of the inner tube is ∼25 nm. The key to this technique is to utilize the difference in hydrolysis rates between the titanium source and the zirconium source in an air atmosphere with a humidity of 40–45% to obtain nanoscale tube-in-tube structures. The Y2(Zr0.6Ti0.4)2O7:Eu tube-in-tube nanostructures exhibit excellent luminescence stability and lower color drift performance at high temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanically interlocked molecules (MIMs) represent an exciting yet underexplored area of research in the context of carbon nanoscience. Recently, work from our group and others has shown that small carbon nanotube fragments—[n]cycloparaphenylenes ([n]CPPs) and related nanohoop macrocycles—may be integrated into mechanically interlocked architectures by leveraging supramolecular interactions, covalent tethers, or metal‐ion templates. Still, available synthetic methods are typically difficult and low yielding, and general methods that allow for the creation of a wide variety of these structures are limited. Here we report an efficient route to interlocked nanohoop structures via the active template Cu‐catalyzed azide‐alkyne cycloaddition (AT−CuAAC) reaction. With the appropriate choice of substituents, a macrocyclic precursor to 2,2′‐bipyridyl embedded [9]CPP (bipy[9]CPP) participates in the AT−CuAAC reaction to provide [2]rotaxanes in near‐quantitative yield, which can then be converted into the fully π‐conjugated catenane structures. Through this approach, two nanohoop[2]catenanes are synthesized which consist of a bipy[9]CPP catenated with either Tz[10]CPP or Tz[12]CPP (where Tz denotes a 1,2,3‐triazole moiety replacing one phenylene ring in the [n]CPP backbone). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the development of a small-molecule Fenton reagent for chemodynamic therapy (CDT) in cancer treatment. The researchers designed a molecule that combines a Fenton reagent with a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor to regulate intracellular acidosis. They synthesized nanoparticles containing this molecule and demonstrated its effectiveness in inducing cellular acidosis and promoting tumor cell damage. The reagent, called FSC NPs, was tested on tumor cells in vitro and in vivo using mice, showing promising results in inhibiting tumor growth and triggering ferroptosis. This study suggests that FSC NPs could be a highly effective approach for cancer treatment. [Extracted from the article]

The 87th Annual Meeting of the Israel Chemical Society took place in April 2024 at Tel Aviv University. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in the Gaza Strip, the meeting was condensed to one day. The event included lectures, a poster session, a commercial exhibition, and various other activities. The text covers a wide range of scientific topics, including imaging metabolites, molecular crystals, RNA sensors for cancer diagnostics, catalytic reactions, and more. It also discusses energy technologies, electrocatalysis, and the use of metal-organic frameworks. The text concludes with a description of the 2022 ICS Prize Ceremony, where individuals were recognized for their contributions to chemistry. The awards cover various areas of chemistry and highlight the diverse achievements of individuals in Israel. [Extracted from the article]

We are living in an era of advanced nanoscience and nanotechnology. Numerous nanomaterials, culminating in nanorobots, have demonstrated ingenious applications in biomedicine, including breast cancer (BC) nano-theranostics. To solve the complicated problem of BC heterogeneity, non-targeted drug distribution, invasive diagnostics or surgery, resistance to classic onco-therapies and real-time monitoring of tumors, nanorobots are designed to perform multiple tasks at a small scale, even at the organelles or molecular level. Over the last few years, most nanorobots have been bioengineered as biomimetic and biocompatible nano(bio)structures, resembling different organisms and cells, such as urchin, spider, octopus, fish, spermatozoon, flagellar bacterium or helicoidal cyanobacterium. In this review, readers will be able to deepen their knowledge of the structure, behavior and role of several types of nanorobots, among other nanomaterials, in BC theranostics. We summarized here the characteristics of many functionalized nanodevices designed to counteract the main neoplastic hallmark features of BC, from sustaining proliferation and evading anti-growth signaling and resisting programmed cell death to inducing angiogenesis, activating invasion and metastasis, preventing genomic instability, avoiding immune destruction and deregulating autophagy. Most of these nanorobots function as targeted and self-propelled smart nano-carriers or nano-drug delivery systems (nano-DDSs), enhancing the efficiency and safety of chemo-, radio- or photodynamic therapy, or the current imagistic techniques used in BC diagnosis. Most of these nanorobots have been tested in vitro, using various BC cell lines, as well as in vivo, mainly based on mice models. We are still waiting for nanorobots that are low-cost, as well as for a wider transition of these favorable effects from laboratory to clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ionogels, composed of ionic liquids and supporting networks, possess a plethora of exceptional properties, including nonvolatility, remarkable thermal and electrochemical stability, elevated mechanical strength, as well as outstanding ionic conductivity. Based on these extraordinary characteristics, ionogels have found extensive applications in diverse fields encompassing functional materials, sensors, soft electronics, solid electrolytes, and biomedicine. In recent years, ionogels have witnessed significant advancements and emerged as a highly popular subject matter. Consequently, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest progress made in the realm of ionogels. The preparation methods of ionogels are initially introduced following a concise introduction. Subsequently, the properties of ionogels, encompassing mechanical properties, high and low temperature resistance, ionic conductivity, stimuli-response properties, self-healing properties, recyclability and their structure-property relationships, are comprehensively discussed. Moreover, recent advancements in the utilization of ionogels in solid electrolytes, ionic skins, soft electronics, adhesions and other domains are also elaborated upon extensively. Finally, after a succinct summary, challenges and prospects regarding the future development of ionogels are thoroughly deliberated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, cancer vaccines that intend to specifically initiate host immune responses against cancer have achieved some clinical success. Delivery of vaccines with traditional needles is usually associated with the risk of infection and poor patient compliance. The development of needle-free vaccines may overcome these limitations. In this work, a needle-free patch is designed for effective cancer vaccination using a fluorine chain-modified cationic polymer, fluorinated chitosan (FCS), which is able to transdermatically deliver the antigen to antigen-presenting cells in the skin. Specifically, a transdermal carrier, FCS, and model antigen ovalbumin (OVA) can self-assemble into nanoparticles, which can reversibly open the tight junction-associated proteins of epithelial cells and penetrate across the epidermis. The needle-free cancer vaccine patch is fabricated by mixing FCS-OVA nanoparticles with the US Food and Drug Administration-approved immune adjuvant imiquimod (R837) in blank cream. Such a needle-free cancer vaccine can generate robust immune responses to protect mice against ovalbumin-expressing melanoma (B16-OVA). Compared to traditional intradermal injection, needle-free cancer vaccines achieved an even more efficient protection effect against B16-OVA cancer cells. This work indicated that the novel needle-free cancer vaccine may provide a compelling technology for simple and safe vaccination, which may help to increase vaccination coverage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent years have seen a drastic increase in the scientific use of machine learning (ML) techniques, yet their applications remain limited for many fields. Here, we demonstrate techniques that allow overcoming two obstacles to the widespread adoption of ML, particularly relevant to nanomaterials and nanoscience fields. Using the prediction of the band gap values of carbon nanotubes as a typical example, we address the representation of the periodic data as well as training on extremely small datasets. We successfully showed that careful choice of the activation function allows capturing periodic tendencies in the datasets that are common in physical data and previously posed significant difficulty for neural networks. In particular, utilization of the recently proposed parametric periodic Snake activation function shows a dramatic improvement. Furthermore, tackling a typical lack of accurate data, we used the transfer learning technique utilizing more abundant low-quality computational data and achieving outstanding accuracy on a significantly expanded dataspace. This strategy was enabled by the use of a combination of the Snake and ReLU layers, capturing data periodicity and amplitude, respectively. Hence, retraining only ReLU layers allowed the transfer of the periodic tendencies captured from low-quality data to the final high-accuracy neural network. Those techniques are expected to expand the usability of ML approaches in application to physical data in general and the fields of nanomaterials in particular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanocellulose is a promising future material which has got attention due to its unique characteristics. Properties which make nanocellulose special are the eco‐friendliness, high strength, stiffness, renewability, abundance, tunable surface characteristics, and low weight. This review addresses major factors like processing of nanocellulose, modification, properties, preparation of nanocomposites from nanocellulose, and their application in different fields. This review facilitates the selection of biomass sources, processing techniques for NC synthesis, application, and challenges. This review also emphasizes on different applications of nanocellulose reinforced polymer composites in different areas such as biomedical, packaging, electronic and environmental remediation, etc. Recent developments in the processing of cellulose nanocomposites using solution casting and other complex methods have been highlighted. As an emerging functional polymeric material, nanocellulose has become a research hotspot. The importance of nanocellulose in future includes the design of nanocellulose as per the specific user requirements, reduction of the production cost, and making customized products using nanocellulose using green processing. Hence this review is intended to provide new insights into the field of eco‐friendly fundamental materials with in‐depth perspectives and current research trends in its future applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of low-dimensional materials is the key topic of nanoscience. The development of new routes to downsize organic and inorganic materials has focused the attention of a great part of the scientific community that is still debating on the best route to pursue. Among nanostructures, 2D species have been investigated since the discovery of graphene. Nonetheless, the production of 2D materials is very complex, and the discussion on which is the most profitable way is still open. Ultrasound-assisted techniques represent one of the best routes for the production of 2D materials with minimum consumption of energy and best performances. Accordingly, we present a concise and exhaustive discussion about the use of ultrasound-assisted techniques for the production of both organic and inorganic 2D materials, also providing a theoretical overview of the mechanism behind the use of ultrasounds in synthetic material science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Groundwater is the only source of clean water for human use in much of the world, but contaminants from the home, business, and agriculture-such as fertilizers and pesticides-can quickly contaminate it. The main objective of the current work was to investigate the photocatalytic removal of the herbicide 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) from an aqueous medium utilizing environmentally friendly zinc oxide nanoparticles. One of the main areas of research has been the possible use of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles in antifungal, antibacterial, and optical applications. Due to their unique qualities, the well-known nanoparticles utilized in nanotechnology and nanoscience have a wide range of practical applications in the chemical, pharmaceutical, medical, and rural sectors. These particles are used to degrade contaminants during synthetic production. Due to the availability of dangerous synthetic compounds and the outrageous climatic openness in these nanoparticles' physical and substance growth, eco-friendly approaches to utilizing plants have been established. The study includes a brief history of the production of zinc oxide nanoparticles and their application in the pollutant 2,4 D degrading process. This study highlights the use of neem extract in the manufacture of zinc oxide nanoparticles and their application in the removal of contaminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document contains two poster abstracts related to muscle-related research. The first abstract discusses the generation of 3D human cardiac models of Duchenne cardiomyopathy and the inhibition of NOX4, an enzyme that plays a role in the pathogenesis of cardiomyopathy. The study found that inhibiting NOX4 improved the survival and contractility of dystrophic cardiomyocytes. The second abstract focuses on muscle regeneration in a mouse model of accelerated aging. The study found that the mice displayed impaired muscle regeneration and reduced satellite cell numbers, suggesting non-cell autonomous mechanisms may be involved. Further investigation revealed increased macrophage infiltration and reduced fibro-adipogenic progenitor-related gene expression in the regenerating muscle of the mice. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides an overview of the 2023 Nobel laureates in chemistry, Alexei I. Ekimov, Louis E. Brus, and Moungi G. Bawendi, and their contributions to the field. It explores the historical use of metal salts in stained glass windows and the relationship between nanoparticle size and absorption edge in glasses. The article focuses on Ekimov's research on colloidal particle growth in glasses, Brus' work on size-dependent optical properties in colloidal suspensions, and Bawendi's advancements in nanocrystal properties. It also discusses the development and applications of colloidal quantum dots, which are nanocrystals that emit light across a wide range of wavelengths. The article emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of quantum dot research and its potential for future applications in energy conversion, quantum light sources, sensing, and imaging. [Extracted from the article]

Cancer, with each year, has been turning into one of the most catastrophic and most complex diseases. Techniques such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, which are often bound by pain and side effects are used, using different varieties of drugs. As we have sailed along these years, the world has shown a static increase in lung cancer, especially in people who have their habits inclined into different drugs. These patients, who fail miserably with breathing difficulties, gets their conditions worsen, with these predominantly used treatment methods. As an alternative, nanomaterials could be the future technique which could be, much safer and more effective than the prevalent therapies that exist today. Nanomaterials, as scientists say, have been a revolution in the medical field, over the past decade. The primary objective of these nanomaterials in Lung Cancer treatment is to target and eliminate the metastasis which is been created in the lungs. This can be done using specially designed robots at the nano-scale level, called “Nanobots.” These bots could be made of both organic and inorganic materials in the nanoscale. Usually, in case of cancer treatment, the organic materials like the parts of DNA and RNA along with some compounds are used in its manufacturing. These bots are designed to work in two states, the OFF State and the ON state, which gets shifted when the clamshell coincides with the cancerous cells. Since nanobots can be managed using complicated programming techniques, it can also be used to detect any secondary disease present in the individual's body. In this project, we will see insights into how nanobots could potentially work to eliminate the cancerous cells in the lungs.

The orientation ordering and assembly behavior of silica–nickel Janus particles in a static external magnetic field were probed by ultra small-angle X-ray scattering (USAXS). Even in a weak applied field, the net magnetic moments of the individual particles aligned in the direction of the field, as indicated by the anisotropy in the recorded USAXS patterns. X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy (XPCS) measurements on these suspensions revealed that the corresponding particle dynamics are primarily Brownian diffusion [Zinn, Sharpnack & Narayanan (2023). Soft Matter, 19, 2311–2318]. At higher fields, the magnetic forces led to chain-like configurations of particles, as indicated by an additional feature in the USAXS pattern. A theoretical framework is provided for the quantitative interpretation of the observed anisotropic scattering diagrams and the corresponding degree of orientation. No anisotropy was detected when the magnetic field was applied along the beam direction, which is also replicated by the model. The method presented here could be useful for the interpretation of oriented scattering patterns from a wide variety of particulate systems. The combination of USAXS and XPCS is a powerful approach for investigating asymmetric colloidal particles in external fields.

Photothermal spectroscopy, a remarkable detection method that can analyze microscale objects in a noninvasive and nondestructive manner, has been successfully coupled with micro/nanofluidic devices. Specifically, methods that employ a thermal lens microscope (TLM), including a photothermal optical phase shift and photothermal optical diffraction, are a powerful tool for the sensitive detection of nonfluorescent or nonlabeled molecules in micro/nanofluidic channels. This review focuses on the family of TLMs in terms of their historical development. Their recent applications, ranging from separation, particle, biomedical, energy, and environmental analyses, are summarized, and future perspectives in nanoscale liquid science, system integration, and biological studies, such as single-cell analyses, are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoscience at times can seem out of reach to the developing world and the general public, with much of the equipment expensive and knowledge seemingly esoteric to nonexperts. Using only cheap, everyday household items, accessible research with real applications can be shown. Here, graphene suspensions were produced using pencil lead, tap water, kitchen appliances, soaps and coffee filters, with a children's glue-based graphene nanocomposite for highly sensitive pulse measurements demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to recent advancements in technologies and nanoscience, research focused on nanofluid because of its extensive use in many industrial as well as manufacturing processes. Nanotechnology is widely utilized in many photovoltaic devices, mini-computers, bio-medical apparatus, electronic instruments, cooling and heating of metallic plates, etc. In view of numerous applications, the basic aim of this work is to explore the impact of ferromagnetic nanomaterial on 2-D Eyring–Powell fluid flow. Characteristics of viscous dissipation and Brownian movement are under consideration. Some suitable similarity transformations are exploited to achieve the nonlinear ODEs from PDEs. Bvp4c scheme is implemented to solve the resultant system of equation. Impacts of ferromagnetic interaction parameter, thermophoresis parameter, viscous dissipation, Curie temperature and Eckert number are perceived for velocity, temperature as well as concentration fields. Moreover, velocity, thermal and mass transfer gradients are deliberated and scrutinized graphically. It is found that upsurge in the value of magnetic parameter reduces the velocity profile while it deteriorates against Eyring–Powell fluid parameter. Additionally, greater thermophoresis parameter has augmented the temperature profile while it shows opposite behavior for concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article introduces a special collection of papers dedicated to Maurizio Prato, a renowned scientist in the field of carbon nanostructures and molecular nanoscience. The collection showcases Prato's team's achievements in integrating complex frontier research with groundbreaking advancements in these fields. Prato's work focuses on designing and synthesizing carbon nanostructures for applications in regenerative medicine and solar energy research. The article highlights Prato's scientific journey, his contributions to sustainable materials, and his impact on shaping functional nano-interfaces through precision chemistry. The Prato lab has made significant contributions to nanotechnology, particularly in the area of functionalized carbon nanotubes (f-CNT). Their research has shown that f-CNT are more biocompatible and easily cleared from the body compared to nonfunctionalized CNT. The lab has applied this knowledge to develop solutions for challenging problems such as healing spinal cord injuries and using water as a solar fuel. Their work in regenerative medicine has shown promising results in repairing severe and irreversible nervous system lesions, while their research in energy conversion has explored the use of f-CNT for solar energy conversion. Maurizio Prato, the leader of the lab, has fostered an interdisciplinary and collaborative environment, encouraging his team to explore diverse research avenues and promoting intellectual freedom. His mentorship and open-mindedness have been instrumental in the lab's success. [Extracted from the article]