bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural, Magnetic, Electrical and Photo-Fenton Properties of Copper Substituted Strontium M-Hexagonal Ferrite Nanomaterials via Chemical Coprecipitation Approach
Authors: Ajeesha T. L. , Anantharaman Ashwini , Baby Jeena N. , George Mary
Published: September 2019

Copper substituted strontium ferrite nano spinels were synthesized by facile chemical coprecipitation method. Structural properties of all the nano materials were examined using Powder X-ray Diffraction of size ranging 22–50 nm and High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy
which further revealed the formation of hexagonal spinel structure. The analysis of FT-IR spectra of all the samples confirmed the formation of M–O bond with spinel structure having characteristic peaks at 422 cm-1 and 586 cm-1. All the samples were subjected to
dielectric studies at room temperature. A quite narrow band gap around 1.5–1.6 eV for all the samples indicates that these ferrites can behave as visible light photocatalysts. The as synthesized nano spinels were proposed to be promising heterogeneous Photo-Fenton catalysts under visible
light for the degradation of organic pollutants. The photo catalytic degradation results revealed 94% degradation for all the prepared nano catalysts. The materials displayed remarkable photo-stability with recyclability up to five consecutive cycles. VSM studies of the materials exhibited
weak ferromagnetic property with high surface area. Therefore, these magnetic materials presented no significant loss in activity specifying an exceptional capacity of ferrites to remove organic pollutants from wastewater.
Effect of Temperature and Anodizing Potential on the Photocatalytic Activity of TiO2 Nanotubes
Authors: Farrokh M. , Alitabar M. , Gheiratmand T.
Published: September 2019

In this research, the effect of temperature and anodizing voltage on the morphology and photocatalytic activity of TiO2 nanotubes which were fabricated in the organic electrolyte containing sodium carbonate as an additive was investigated. The FESEM results indicate that
by increasing temperature, the growth rate, wall thickness of nanotubes decreased and disordered nanotube was fabricated. Besides, the photocatalytic activity of nanotubes was decreased as well. Furthermore, enhancing the anodizing voltage from 30 to 50 V leads to improvement of morphology
and photocatalytic activity of TiO2 nanotubes.
Fabrication of Silver Nano-Dendrites on Optical Fibre Core by Laser-Induced Method for Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Applications
Authors: Pham Thanh Binh , Nguyen Van Chuc , Pham Van Hai , Bui Huy , Coisson Roberto , Pham Van Hoi , Vu Duc Chinh
Published: September 2019

In this work, we present a novel fabrication method for making the surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) probe based on silver (Ag) nano-dendrites which are grown and deposited on the end of multi-mode fibre core by a simple and low-cost laser-induced technique. The morphology of
the Ag-nanoparticles (AgNPs) could be controlled by the experimental conditions such as laser power, illumination time, and concentration of the reaction solution. The morphology and chemical composition of SERS fibre probes are characterized by high-resolution scanning electron microscope
(HR-SEM) and Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), respectively. These results confirmed how the Ag nanostructures morphology is modified as a function of illumination time of laser irradiation, and the growth and deposition of Ag nanostructures occur only in the main laser-irradiated
part on the end of multi-mode fibre core. The achieved SERS-activity substrates on the fibre probes are testing with the detection of low concentration of Rhodamine 6G aqueous solutions in the range of 10-5–10-10 M. This study shows that SERS activity coupled with
Ag nano-dendrites substrate on the fibre probe has the best enhancement factor of 1.93×107 for Rhodamine 6G due to the creation of many of hot-spots for amplifying Raman signals by Ag nano-dendrite structures, which is a promising candidate with low-cost SERS probe of chemical
compact optical fibre sensors for direct, rapid, real-time and non-destructive detection of chemical compounds in liquid environment.
Catalytic Activity of Ag-Co-MCM-41 for Liquid-Phase Selective Oxidation of Styrene to Benzaldehyde
Authors: Jiang Tingshun , Gao Guofang , Yang Cheng , Mao YuLin , Fang Minglan , Zhao Qian
Published: September 2019

A series of Ag-Co-MCM-41 with different metal loadings have been synthesized through the hydrothermal method. All the prepared catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, X-ray diffraction analysis, transmission electron microscopy. The results revealed
that the structure of MCM-41 was well preserved and Ag and Co have been introduced successfully into the mesoporous channels of MCM-41. The liquid-phase catalytic oxidation of styrene on these catalysts was investigated using H2O2 as an oxidizing agent and acetone as
a solvent in thermostatic water bath. The influence of metal loading, the catalyst dose, temperature, time and styrene/oxidant molar ratio on the conversion of styrene and yield and selectivity of benzaldehyde was investigated. Also, the reusability of the catalysts was evaluated.
Synthesis and Electrochemical Properties of CuC2O4·xH2O and CuC2O4·xH2O/Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) Anodes for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Hu Yi-Ni , Lin Zi-Han , Min Fei-Xia , Teng Fei , Wu Hui-Min , Wang Shi-Quan , Liu Jian-Wen , Feng Chuan-Qi
Published: September 2019

Pure CuC2O4·xH2O and CuC2O4·xH2O/carbon nanotubes (CNTs) composites are synthesized by a low-temperature hydrothermal process. The structure and morphology of the products are analyzed by X-ray
diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TG) and Raman spectrum. The results demonstrate that the as-prepared CuC2O4·xH2O takes on a microsphere-like morphology, all CuC2O4·xH2O/CNTs
nanocomposites are constructed by the intertwining of tabular CuC2O4·xH2O nanoparticles (NPs) and CNTs to form a tanglesome net. When evaluated as an anode materials for lithium ion batteries (LIBs), all CuC2O4·xH2O/CNTs
electrodes possess higher reversible discharge capacities (more than 1000 mAh g-1) than the pure CuC2O4·xH2O, up to 200th cycle at a current density of 100 mA g-1. The results illustrate that the addition of CNTs can enhance
the electrochemical performance of CuC2O4·xH2O. Overall, CuC2O4·xH2O/CNTs composite can be a promising candidate used as a promising anode for LIBs.
Label-Free Detection of Ovarian Cancer Antigen CA125 by Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering
Authors: TunÇ İlknur , Susapto Hepi Hari
Published: September 2019

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has drawn attention in recent years for imaging biologicalmolecules as an analytical tool due to its label-free approach. The SERS approach can be used in tracking organic molecules and monitoring unique Raman spectra of the organic molecules
bound to metal nanoparticles (NPs). In this paper, the molecular specifity of Raman Spectroscopy was used together with self-assembled monolayer of metallic AuNPs as a sensor platform in order to detect CA125 antibody-antigen probe molecules. Highly enhanced electromagnetic fields localized
around neighboring AuNPs provide hot-spot construction due to the spatial distribution of SERS enhancement on the CA125 proteins at nM concentration level. Time resolved SERS mapping of CA125 antibody and antigen couples was recorded. Even though blinking behavior was observed for some cases,
vast variety SERS signals from CA125 proteins were highly reproducible. Blinking behavior is attributed to single molecular detection. Distinguished feature of SERS mapping images of CA125 antibody and antigen with such a low concentration level is very promising for this technique to be used
for diagnostic purposes.
Morphological Tuning of Nanostructured Hydroxyapatite (HAp) Porous Microgranules by Evaporation-Induced Assembly
Authors: Garg Rohini , Sen Debasis , Sahu Ashok , Krishnan Madangopal
Published: September 2019

Porous biocompatible microgranules, such as hydroxyapatite (HAp), are potential candidates for various bio-medical applications including drug delivery and remediation. Using the principle of evaporation-induced assembly in contact free dispersion droplets, we have synthesized porous
micrometric HAp granules consist of interlocked ellipsoidal nanoparticles. We have shown that the shape of the microgranules can be tuned from spherical to doughnut solely by controlling the drying temperature during assembly. The structure and interparticle correlation in the synthesized
granules have been probed by electron microscopy and small-angle scattering. The observed morphological transition has been attributed to the buckling of elastic shell made of interlocked HAp nanoparticles. Alteration of granular morphology at higher drying rate does not affect the local packing
fraction of the correlated HAp nanoparticles in the granules. The absorption of bovine serum albumin protein by the synthesized granules has been tested as a potential application.
Composite AgBr Colloidal Spheres/g-C3N4 Nanosheets: An Effective Light-Emitting Diode (LED) Irradiation Photocatalyst
Authors: Chen Guochang , Zhu Mingming , Wang Lichun , Wu Xingrong
Published: September 2019

In this investigation, AgBr/g-C3N4 composite as an effective LED-irradiation photocatalyst was synthesized via a one-pot method. In this composite, the colloidal spheres of AgBr were uniformly dispersed on the g-C3N4 nanosheets, which were
characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV-vis diffused reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. The introduction of g-C3N4
nanosheets improved the stability and optimized the spatial charge carrier transfer compared to pristine AgBr, hence exhibited excellent activities toward the degradation of methyl orange (MO) as evidenced by the discoloration rate of MO by 94.8% after 120 min of irradiation. Also, the mechanism
based on the band structures and microstructures of the catalysts was then proposed.
Structural and Magnetic Properties of Rare Earth Doped Multilayer Nanocable Arrays
Authors: Li Xiao-Ru , Song Guo-Jun , Ma Li-Chun , Peng Qiao-Hong , Li Hong-Yan , Ji Zhi-Jian , Cong Hai-Lin
Published: September 2019

The structure and anisotropic magnetization of One-dimensional (1D) Nd/Co/PA66 coaxial nanocables prepared by a low cost physical infiltration and electrodeposition methods are investigated. The preparation of Co nanotubes, Co/PA66 two-layer nanotubes and Nd/Co/PA66 three-layer nanocales
is described, respectively. The structure, chemical composition and magnetic properties of various nanomaterials were investigated. The results show that the magnetic properties were affected by the rare earth metal Nd and the structural properties. The residual magnetization ratio of Nd/Co/PA66
nanocables is the biggest due to the synergistic effect of Nd and Co. In addition, the magnetization processes of the nanostructure were discussed in detail. We believe that these methods may provide an idea for ferromagnetic alloys and permanent magnet material and suitable for future applications
in perpendicular recording media.
Fabrication of P(AN-MA)/rGO-g-PAO Superhydrophilic Nanofiber Membrane for Removal of Heavy Metal Ions
Authors: Wang Weijing , Han Na , Yang Chao , Zhang Wenxin , Miao Jinlei , Li Wei , Zhang Xingxiang
Published: September 2019

The process in which the nanofiber membrane is used to remove heavy metal ions and separation of oil-water solution is analyzed. Herein, smooth structures are induced by rGO-g-PAO sheets, which could be attributed to the strong interaction between P(AN-MA) and rGO-g-PAO. It is rewarding
to note that the P(AN-MA)/rGO-g-PAO nanofiber membrane would exhibit superhydrophilic traits in the air and ultra-low oil-adhesive traits underwater when the concentration of P(AN-MA) and PAO is 13 wt.% and 0.3 wt.%, respectively. The amidoxime (–C(NH2) NOH) groups on the
membrane surface can efficiently adsorb copper (Cu(II)) (1.65 mmol/g) and chromium (Cr(VI)) (4.70 mmol/g) ions in the waste water. Meanwhile, the P(AN-MA)/rGO-g-PAO nanofiber membrane exhibits ultrahigh flux (~6150 LMH), satisfying rejection rate (~97%) and outstanding flux recovery ratio
(~99%) in separating oil water emulsion.
Functionalized Reduced Graphene Oxide Loaded Aligned Carbon Nanotube Layer Used as Counter Electrode for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Ma Jing , Yang Hai-Lian , Ren Wei-Hua
Published: September 2019

A novel bilayer counter electrodes for Dye-sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs) made of reduced graphene oxide (RGO) and aligned carbon nanotube (ACNT) was developed. The underlayer ACNT severs as a transition layer for RGO. The overlayer of RGO plays the role of catalytic layer. It was demonstrated
that the property of graphene counter electrode was adversely affected by aggregation, by adding surfactant, the aggregation of graphene can be inhabited effectively. Moreover, the interface between the RGO and the ACNT can be optimized by surfactant functionalization of RGO. After screening,
a cationic surfactant cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) functionalized RGO, code as CPC-RGO, exhibits the best performance. Compare to the ACNT based counter electrode and other surfactant functionalized RGO/ACNT based bilayer counter electrodes, the CPC-RGO/ACNT reduced interface resistance
and improved the double chemical capacitance efficiently, thus uplifting the short circuit current density and fill factor from 7.35 to 8.8 mA cm-2, and 59.87 to 62.79, respectively. Eventually, the CPC-RGO/ACNT based DSSC giving a power conversion efficiency of 3.9%, which is 1.24-fold
than that of ANCT based DSSC, because of the best splay degree of CPC/RGO.
Photocatalytic Degradation of Rhodamine B Under Visible Light Irradiation by TiO2 Doped Layered Zirconium Phosphates
Authors: Li Fei , Lu Chuan , Xu Bin , Cheng Li-Yuan
Published: September 2019

TiO2 doped layered zirconium phosphates were prepared by the hydrofluoric acid (HF) method and its photocatalytic performance was investigated in this study. Through the introduction of octylamine which acts as the intercalation and exfoliation reagent in the process, TiO2
could be uniformly generated and dispersed on the zirconium phosphate matrix through tetrabutyl titanate hydrolysis and calcination. The nano-scale TiO2 was obtained by applying the appropriate ratio of tetrabutyl titanate and layered zirconium phosphate in reaction. XRD, N2-sorption,
FT-IR, UV-vis, SEM and TEM were used to characterize the structure and phtocatalytic properties of the samples. The photocatalytic performance of synthesized nano-scale TiO2 doped zirconium phosphates was studied by degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB). It is found that the scavenging
rate of RhB could be up to 65% within 90 min under the visible light irradiation due to the relatively large active surface area and compact size of TiO2. This study highlights the potential application of TiO2 doped layered zirconium phosphate as a novel photocatalyst
in photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants.
Facile Synthesis and Microwave-Absorption Properties of Organic–Inorganic CoFe2O4/Polyaniline Nanocomposites with Embedded Structure
Authors: Chen Peng , Jiang Lin-Wen , Yang Shan-Shan , Chen Hong-Bing , He Jun , Wang Yu , An Jing
Published: September 2019

Organic–inorganic CoFe2O4/polyaniline (CoFe2O4/PA) nanocomposites with embedded structures were synthesized by combining the sol–gel auto-combustion process and in-situ oxidative polymerization. The phases and morphologies
of the prepared samples were identified. The pure CoFe2O4 samples exhibited inferior microwave-absorption properties in a frequency range of 2–18 GHz. Upon the incorporation of PA, the formed CoFe2O4/PA nanocomposites exhibited rather good
absorption performances. When the sample thickness was 2.5 mm, the maximum reflection loss (RL) reached -22.3 dB, while the RL below -10 dB corresponded to the range of 11.0–17.1 GHz, which contains almost the entire Ku-band, making the structure promising for commercial and military
applications. A physical model was employed to explain the effects of the embedded structure on the microwave-absorption performances. The excellent microwave-absorption performances could be attributed to the interfacial polarization and repeated reflection of the microwaves inside the CoFe2O4/PA
composite.
Ultra Fast Oil-Water Separation for Different Viscous Oil Using Flourine-Free, Reusable, Superhydrophobic Polyurethane Sponge
Authors: Ma Jing , Zhu Weihui , Lartey Patrick Osei , Qin Wen
Published: September 2019

To exploit new adsorbents for oil-spill cleanup, a superhydrophobic material was fabricated by hightemperature reduced graphene oxide (HRGO) coated on commercial polyurethane (PU) sponge via facile dip-coating process. Compared with chemical reagent reduced graphene oxide, the graphene
showed expanded sheets and vast surface area, which ensured the water contact angle of this synthesized sponge reached 150.0±2.5°. In order to break the boundary of poor adhesion of graphene on sponge skeleton, a simple approach of sealed thermal treatment was adopted in our work.
And then the high-temperature reduced graphene oxide/polyurethane sponge treated with binary flourine-free organosilanes solution showed superhydrophobicity with high water contact angle (162.4±1.0°). Silanes addition also endowed the resultant sponge with enhanced interfacial adhesion
on PU skeleton owing to interconnected structure. The as-prepared sponge displayed excellent adsorption capacity, which was 48–74 times of its own weight for different organic solvents and oils, and no decrease of the adsorption capacity was observed after 20 cycles. Besides, for the
very sticky oil, the Joule-heat generated in the sponge by applied voltage could reduce the viscosity of oil. With the assistance of Joule-heat, the silane modified high-temperature reduced graphene oxide/polyurethane sponge achieved effective oil-water separation and greatly speeded up the
separation efficiency. Additionally, whether in various temperature or corrosive conditions, the superhydrophobicity of the sponge almost remained stable, which was promising for oil/water treatment.
Photo-Induced Charge Transfer on Pt/Bi2WO6 Composite Photocatalysts
Authors: He Dong-Qing , Liu Hong-Cheng , Wang Qi , Yu Qian , Liu Jin-Ying , Qu Yun-Peng , Zhang Xiao-Chen
Published: September 2019

Pt/Bi2WO6 composite photocatalysts were prepared by a facile photoreduction method. Pt nanoparticles with an average size of 5–8 nm were successfully deposited on the surface of Bi2WO6 microspheres and the photocatalytic activity of
Bi2WO6 was greatly improved by Pt nanoparticles. The photo-induced charge transfer properties of samples were studied by means of surface photovoltage (SPV) and transient photovoltage (TPV) techniques, giving an insight into the intrinsic reasons of the improvement in
photocatalytic activity. The SPV and TPV results revealed that the deposited Pt nanoparticles could trap photo-induced electrons and then largely enhance the separation efficiency of photo-induced charge carriers.
Photocatalytic TiO2 Nanoparticles Activated by Dielectric Barrier Discharge Plasma Assisted Ball Milling
Authors: Liu Xuezhang , Long Hangyu , Hu Shenghua , Wen Kui
Published: September 2019

Developing defects on the surface of TiO2 nanoparticles by mechanical treatment is a fascinating approach to enhance photocatalytic efficiency. However, it poses risks to producing bulk defects and phase transformation, which seriously deteriorates photocatalytic performance.
Here, activating TiO2 nanoparticles was elaborately fulfilled by using dielectric barrier discharge plasma assisted ball milling (DBDP-milling) as it imposes plasma to nano-scaled particles along with soft mechanical impact. The evolution of surface properties of TiO2
nanoparticles with DBDP-milling durations was inspected using a Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and an X-ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS), while the morphology and structure were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy. Results
showed that DBDP-milling developed a considerable number of oxygen vacancies in TiO2 nanoparticles as well as bulk defects free. These TiO2 nanoparticles formed agglomerates with BET surface area of 37.40 m2/g and exhibited enhanced photocatalytic efficiency.
Toxic Effects of Metal Oxide Nanoparticles Based on the Enzymatic Activity and Biosynthesis of β-Galactosidase Using a Mutant Strain of E. coli
Authors: Kong In Chul , Yang Xin , Wi Wonil , Kim Minji , Ko Kyung-Seok
Published: September 2019

The effects of six metal oxide nanoparticles (MO-NPs) on the activity and biosynthesis of an enzyme (β-galactosidase) were examined using a mutant strain of E. coli. Different sensitivities were observed according to the type of NP and metabolic process. The toxic
effects on enzyme activity were significantly greater than on biosynthesis (p < 0.011), except in the presence of NiO. In both cases, ZnO NP caused the greatest inhibition among the tested NPs, followed by CuO. The EC50s for ZnO were 0.19 and 3.68 mg/L for enzyme activity and
biosynthesis, respectively. Similar orders of toxicity were observed as follows: ZnO > CuO > NiO > Co3O4 > TiO2, Al2O3 for enzyme activity; and ZnO > CuO > NiO ≫ Al2O3, TiO2, Co3O4
for the biosynthetic process. More systematic research, including in-depth studies like investigation of the molecular mechanisms, is necessary to elucidate the detailed mechanisms of inhibition involved in both metabolic processes.
Cytotoxicity, Oxidative Stress, and Autophagy Effects of Tantalum Nanoparticles on MC3T3-E1 Mouse Osteoblasts
Authors: Wang Peihuan , Qiao Pengyan , Xing Helin , Zhang Rong , Lingling E , Liu Hongchen
Published: September 2019

As a bone implant material, porous tantalum (Ta) has better corrosion resistance and more suitable elastic modulus than titanium. Surface nanomodification can accelerate the integration of Ta implants with bone tissue, which has broad application prospects in the field of dental implantology.
Due to mechanical stress and load wear, nanoscale Ta fragments are inevitably exfoliated from the implant surface and brought into direct contact with osteoblasts surrounding the implant. These wear fragments may affect the biological characteristics of osteoblasts and thus the stability of
implants. To date, the interaction of nanoscale Ta fragments with osteoblasts has not been clearly investigated. In the current study, we used the mouse osteoblast cell line MC3T3-E1 to explore the effects of Ta nanoparticles (Ta-NPs) on the cytotoxicity, oxidative stress and autophagy of
osteoblasts. We found that a low concentration (12.5 μg/mL) of Ta-NPs can promote the proliferation of osteoblasts, while the Ta-NPs began to induce a decrease in cell viability at concentrations ≥25 μg/mL. Increased cell mortality, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production
and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) occurred in a dose-dependent manner after Ta-NP treatment. Moreover, with Ta-NP stimulation, the ratio of LC3-II/LC3-I increased, and the level of p62 protein was reduced. However, the degradation of p62 was not continuously increased when
the concentration of Ta-NPs was ≥25 μg/mL. These results indicate that Ta-NPs induced osteoblast damage via oxidative stress. Autophagy activation may be a key factor in the cellular response to Ta-NP toxicity and could have an important impact on determining the survival or death
of osteoblasts.
Photoresponses of Zinc Tin Oxide Thin-Film Transistor
Authors: Huang Wei Lun , Yang Chen-Chuan , Chang Sheng-Po , Chang Shoou-Jinn
Published: September 2019

In this study, the optical and electrical properties of a zinc tin oxide (ZTO) thin-film transistor (TFT) were investigated. The TFT was fabricated using ZTO as the active layer, which was deposited by a radio frequency magnetron sputtering system, to form an ultraviolet (UV) photodetector.
The device has a threshold voltage of 0.48 V, field-effect mobility of 1.47 cm2/Vs in the saturation region, on/off drain current ratio of 2×106, and subthreshold swing of 0.45 V/decade in a dark environment. Moreover, as a UV photodetector, the device has a long
photoresponse time, responsivity of 0.329 A/W, and rejection ratio of 3.19×104 at a gate voltage of -15 V under illumination of wavelength 300 nm.
Evaluation of Different Blood Circulating miRNAs for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Diagnosis
Authors: Wang Shutong , Wu Jian , Shen Shunli , Geng Zhijun , Ling Yunzhi , Peng Baogang
Published: September 2019

The current study was conducted to investigate the potential of three circulating miRNAs (miR-21, miR-16 and miR-100) as HCC diagnostic marker in the population living in Guangdong province, China. First, the Fe3O4 and Fe3O4@SiO2
magnetic microsphere were prepared. Fe3O4@SiO2 microspheres were further used for total RNA purification from serum. After that, the real-time qPCR was conducted for the detecting the miRNA in the serum of HCC patients and healthy volunteers. Scanning electron
microscope and transmission electron microscope images showed that monodisperse Fe3O4 and Fe3O4@SiO2 microspheres were successfully synthesized with a mean diameter of about 500 nm and 600 nm, respectively. The microsphere was spherical
in shape with good state of dispersion. The characteristic peak at 1088.8 cm-1 in FTIR spectra belonged to the asymmetry stretching vibration of Si–O–Si, which confirmed the SiO2 coating on Fe3O4 microspheres. The successful amplification
of miRNAs in qPCR verified that the total RNA extracted using the Fe3O4@SiO2 microspheres retained high quality. The real time PCR results showed that miR-21 was differentially expressed in the serum of HCC patients and healthy volunteers. miR-21 and alpha-fetoprotein
(AFP) together could be potentially used as HCC diagnostic marker in Guangdong province population in China.
Antimicrobial Peptide-Templated Silver Nanoclusters with Membrane Activity for Enhanced Bacterial Killing
Authors: Fei Xingshu , Ma Xiaochuan , Fang Ge , Chong Yu , Tian Xin , Ge Cuicui
Published: September 2019

We aimed to develop antimicrobial agents that satisfy biosafety considerations while exhibiting efficient antimicrobial activity. Peptide-capped silver nanoclusters (peptide@AgNCs) were designed. In addition, the antimicrobial activity and mechanism of peptide@AgNCs were studied. The
hemolysis and cytotoxicity tests on mammalian cells were used to confirm the biocompatibility of peptide@ AgNCs. KLA@AgNCs exhibited dramatic antimicrobial activity without inducing significant cytotoxicity in mammalian cells. The KLA@AgNCs destroyed the integrity of the bacterial membrane
and induced ROS accumulation, causing oxidative damage to biomolecules. The malfunction of the respiratory chain complexes I and V completely suppresses the energy production, ultimately accelerating the death of the bacteria. Our findings may advance the development of Ag-based nanomaterials
with enhanced bactericidal activity and improved biocompatibility.
Identification of Circulating Tumor Cells Using Plasmonic Resonance Effect: Lab-on-a-Chip Analysis and Modelling
Authors: Salmanogli Ahmad , Gokcen Dincer
Published: September 2019

Circulating tumor cells are widely used as biomarkers of cancer. Although early detection of these cells is vital for diagnosis and prognosis of deadly cancer, it is still a challenging issue due to the complex matrix of blood and their low presence in the bloodstream. In the present
study, we propose a micro-channeled lab-on-a-chip system using two distinct methods based upon dielectrophoretic force and electrical properties of cells to increase the cell detection capability and identification efficiency and accuracy. The dielectric properties of cells contribute to the
difference between negatively charged residues on the cell surface. Firstly, the dielectrophoretic force is used to separate background cells; then, the proposed high-accuracy identification method is used to better examine and study the unidentified cells. In the next phase, by amplification
of the current of the unidentified cells flowing through the nanoparticle plasmonic resonance effects, the microfluidics output efficiency is significantly improved. As a result, highly accurate cell identification is achieved by taking advantage of the nanoparticle plasmonic properties. Overall,
nanoparticle scattering in the plasmonic resonance condition, as well as their plasmonic hybridization, can improve output signal-to-noise ratio.
Effects of Nanoparticles of Metal Oxides on the Survival of the Entomopathogenic Nematode: Steinernema carpocapsae
Authors: Makirita Winisia E. , Yong Liu , He Nongyue , Mbega Ernest R. , Chacha Musa , Li Xiaolong , Zhang Fengqin
Published: September 2019

Nanoparticles (NPs) are technological engineered materials with unique physical and chemical properties, and dimension of less than 100 nm. Nanotechnology has developed at a rapid pace, resulting into tremendous wide application that has resulted into concerns and ecotoxicological consequences.
The antimicrobial potentials of the nanoparticles have been extensively studied, however, little has been done on the allied health and environmental toxicity assessments. Thus, the current work evaluated the toxicity effects of the ZnO, TiO2 and Fe3O4 NPs
on the survival of the entomopathogenic nematodes (Steinernema carpocapsae), as well as their growth inhibition effects on the nematode symbiotic bacteria (Xenorhabdus nematophila). The metal oxides NPs were characterized by scanning electron microscope and transmission electron
microscope. Their toxicity effects were evaluated at various concentrations with the consideration of the media on the toxicity influence. All metal oxides had less influence on the survival of the entomopathogenic nematode and growth of the nematode symbiotic bacterial partner in a concentration
dependant manner NPs. The observed toxicity was in the order of Fe3O4 < TiO2 < ZnO NPs respectively, with no significant difference between the NPs. The less toxic effect of the NPs noted may be associated with the ability of entomopathogenic nematodes
and their bacterial partner to tolerate toxicants. Nonetheless, other toxicity parameter of NPs on the beneficial nematodes needs to be evaluated for consideration of the compatibility potential of the nematodes and NPs for pest management.
Detection of Treponema denticola in Chronic Periodontitis by Quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
Authors: Xu Xiongjun , Li Xiangyong , Chen Qiongyu , Yuan Jia
Published: September 2019

Chronic periodontitis constitutes a significant public health issue, particularly in China. Treponema denticola is one of the bacterial species critically involved in the development of this disease. Therefore, an effort was made in this study to design a technique for isolation
of DNA from gingival fluid and detection of T. denticola genes by PCR methodology. For this purpose, samples were collected from 30 patients with severe periodontitis and 20 patients with mild periodontitis. A group of 50 healthy individuals served as a control. Following the isolation
of DNA from the gingival fluid by magnetic microbeads, the material was analyzed for the presence of 16S rRNA by conventional and quantitative real-time PCR protocols. This newly developed methodology identified the presence of T. denticola in all samples from periodontitis patients.
Quantitative analysis of copy numbers demonstrated that the bacterial count was highest in the severe periodontitis group and intermediate in the mild periodontitis group. The smallest number of bacteria were present in healthy controls. Besides being rapid, accurate and specific, the proposed
method eliminates the need for anaerobic bacterial cultures, making it applicable in a typical clinical setting.
Preparation of TiO2–SiO2 Hybrid Nanosols Coated Flame-Retardant Polyester Fabric Possessing Dual Contradictory Characteristics of Superhydrophobicity and Self Cleaning Ability
Authors: Katiyar Priyanka , Mishra Shraddha , Srivastava Anurag , Prasad N. Eswara
Published: September 2019

TiO2, SiO2 and their hybrid nanocoatings are prepared on inherent flame retardant textile substrates from titanium(IV)iso-proproxide (TTIP) and tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) precursors using a sol–gel process followed by hydrothermal treatment. The coated samples
are further functionalized by hexadecyltrimethoxysilane (HDTMS) to impart superhydrophobicity. Sample characterization of the nanosols, nanoparticles and coated samples are investigated using, X-ray diffractometer, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy,
contact angle measurement. Stain degradation test under mild UV irradiation shows almost 54% degradation of coffee stain within 4 hours measured by Spectrophotometer. UV-Vis Absorption Spectroscopy demonstrates complete degradation of methyl orange colorant within 3 hours. Hybrid nanosol coated
and HDTMS modified inherent flame retardant polyester surfaces show apparent water contact angle as ~145°, which is much closer to proximity of superhydrophobic surfaces. Thus, the novelty of present work is, by using sol–gel technique, a bi-functional textile surface has been developed
which qualifies the very specific requirements of protective clothing like self-cleaning property (imparted by TiO2 nanoparticles) and superhydrophobicity (imparted by SiO2 nanoparticles and further surface modification by HDTMS), which are entirely contradictory in nature,
in a single fabric itself. Thus developed textile surfaces also possess the other attributes of protective clothing like flame retardancy and air permeability.
Facile Preparation of Li0.44MnO2 Nanorods and Their Enhanced Electrochemical Lithium Storage Performance
Authors: Liu Cai , Peng Xiaoming , Shang Guyue , Ju Ruijun , Tian Gang , He Guoxu , Yang Cong , Chen Liang
Published: September 2019

In this paper, we present a fast and green method to prepare Li0.44MnO2 nanorods by Li/Na ion exchange of Na0.44MnO2 templates. XRD and SEM confirm that the products still maintain the crystal and geometric structure of Na0.44MnO2
temples. Electrochemical tests show the capacity of Li0.44MnO2 nanorods is up to 218 mAh · g-1 at the current density of 0.1 A · g-1. Especially, the capacity of electrode is still located at 90 mAh · g-1 at the current
density of 5.0 A· g-1 after cycling for 100 times. So Li0.44MnO2 nanorods have a potential application in the next generation of advanced batteries.
Iodine-124 Labeled Gold Nanoclusters for Positron Emission Tomography Imaging in Lung Cancer Model
Authors: Han Weiwei , Yang Wenjiang , Gao Fuping , Cai Pengju , Wang Jianjun , Wang Sijia , Xue Jingquan , Gao Xueyun , Liu Yu
Published: September 2019

This work reports the synthesis, radiolabeling and imaging studies of iodine-124 labeled peptide modified gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) as positron emission tomography (PET) tracer for lung cancer. The novel modified Au nanoclusters were successfully synthesized by conjugation of tumortargeting
peptide luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LHRH) to human serum albumin (HAS) as a scaffold, resulting in 73% labeling yield of 124I-LHRH-HSA AuNCs. After rapid purification, the radiochemical purity was above 98%. Dynamic PET study in normal rats showed high liver accumulation and rapid
lung clearance. Both the PET and fluorescence imaging in A549 xenografted tumor model demonstrated certain amount of tumor uptake. In orthotopic lung cancer model, the tumor sites could be clearly visualized between 2 to 5 hours in PET images. The higher radioactivity concentration in the
left lung which inoculated orthotopic tumor than right lung also exhibited the targeting properties. The biological properties of this iodine-124 labeled nanoclusters afford potential applications for early diagnosis of lung cancer with PET.
Galleria mellonella Larvae as an In Vivo Model to Evaluate the Toxicity of Polymeric Nanocapsules
Authors: Cé Rodrigo , Silva Rodrigo Campos , Trentin Danielle Silva , Marchi João Guilherme Barreto De , Paese Karina , Guterres Silvia StanisÇuaski , Macedo Alexandre José , Pohlmann Adriana Raffin
Published: September 2019

Galleria mellonella larvae is an invertebrate that has been extensively used as experimental model in the investigation of microbial virulence and efficacy of antimicrobial agents and can be used to provide faster and cheaper data than traditional test systems. Our objective
was to propose the use of G. mellonella larvae as an In Vivo model to evaluate the toxicity of lipid-core nanocapsule (LNC) formulations having different surface coatings. Blank LNC formulations were coated with polysorbate 80 (LNC-1), lecithin and polysorbate 80 (LNC-2), and
lecithin, chitosan and polysorbate 80 (LNC-3). Subsequently, the formulations were systemically administered to G. mellonella larvae at doses of 3.75×10-14, 3.75×10-13, 3.75×10-12, 3.75×10-11 and 3.75×10-10
mols of LNC per kg of larvae. The results demonstrated that those nanocapsules having neutral (LNC-1), negative (LNC-2) or positive (LNC-3) surface did not show acute toxicity effects in G. mellonella larvae. G. mellonella larvae is a viable and promising alternative for In
Vivo nanotoxicological studies. We conclude that G. mellonella larvae can be used as an alternative model for the screening of the toxicity of polymeric nanocapsules functionalized with (i) polysorbate 80, (ii) lecithin and polysorbate 80, and (iii) lecithin, chitosan and polysorbate
80. Future studies can be now developed in order to evaluate their toxicity when loaded or functionalized with drugs.
A Comparison of Mechanical Properties of Different Hydroxyapatite (HAp) Based Nanocomposites: The Influence of Morphology and Preferential Orientation
Authors: Alanís-Gómez J. R. , Rivera-Muñoz E. M. , Peza-Ledesma C. , Manzano-Ramírez A. , Velázquez-Castillo R.
Published: September 2019

Three different types of hydroxyapatite (HAp) based porous ceramic materials were obtained through the modified gel casting method; one of them was made of commercial HAp particles and used as a reference in the mechanical characterization. Other type of ceramic was elaborated using
HAp nanofibers, which were synthesized through the microwave assisted hydrothermal method and they possess a high crystallinity, purity and a preferential crystalline orientation in the [300], such were grown along the [001]. The third type of porous ceramic was elaborated using a combination
of HAp nanofibers and particles. The HAp nanofibers and particles were previously analyzed by using X-ray diffraction to study their crystal structure, the topology and morphology of those HAp aggregates were observed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM); high-resolution transmission electron
microscopy was useful to carry out a detailed crystallographic analysis. Afterwards, an organic phase made of gelatin was added to the porous ceramics in order to obtain nanocomposite materials. Two different concentrations of gelatin were used separately, and the combination of three types
of porous ceramics and two concentrations of gelatin produced six different nanocomposite materials. All of these composite materials were observed through the SEM to see their topology and porosity and after that, they were probed under compression tests and their corresponding mechanical
behavior was analyzed. All the composites showed mechanical properties similar to those observed in cellular materials. The Young modulus and ultimate strength were compared, finally, it was determined the contribution to the mechanical properties of the morphology, crystalline quality and
preferential crystalline orientation in the HAp nanofibers. According to such properties, the composite material made of HAp nanofibers has bone tissue implant potential applications.
Micro-Raman Spectroscopy of Zircon (ZrSiO4) Mineral at Annealing Conditions Usually Applied in Zircon Fission-Track Annealing Dataset
Authors: Dias Airton Natanael Coelho , Leopoldo Constantino Carlos José , Soares Cleber José , de Oliveira Sandro Guedes
Published: September 2019

Raman analyzes were performed on zircon from a syenite located in the Poços de Caldas Complex, Brazil, with a fission-track (FT) zircon age of 81.4±6.8 Ma. Three isochronous heating (1, 10 and 100 hours) of zircon grains were subjected to temperatures between 300 and 750
°C. These temperature and times are usually applied to obtain zircon Fission-Track annealing dataset. For each time-temperature conditions, Raman spectra analyses were accomplished. The results show variations in the intensity and FWHM (full width at half maximum) in the main band (1007
cm-1– Si–O stretching mode), and a singular change in the peaks from 356 to 439 cm-1 (Si–O bending mode); and from 202 to 224 cm-1 (external modes). These changes were interpreted as spectral polarization-dependence related to common crystallinity
increases due to the annealing radiation damages and that the thermal treatments do not interfere on the stability of zircon lattice.
Organs Distribution and Injury After Repeated Intratracheal Instillations of Nano-In2O3 Particles into the Lungs of Wistar Rats
Authors: Chen Zhaofang , Zhao Feng , Wang Xuan , Gao Yongyi , Li Jinxia , Chen Linlin , Jiang Juncheng
Published: September 2019

Elevated industrial production and broaden applications of indium oxide materials have increased concerns over the occupational exposure of industry workers. Respirable In2O3 particles have been identified in the workplaces and lung of indium-processing workers.
The aim of this study was to assess the indium distribution in vivo and organs injury induced by nano-In2O3 particles. More than 50% of nano-In2O3 particles were accumulated in the lungs after 8-week exposure period and caused serious pulmonary
alveolar proteinosis (PAP) and pneumonia. The migration of nano-In2O3 particles from lungs to the other organs was very low and dose not steadily increase the indium burden in those organs except kidney and liver. The repeated intratracheal instillations of nano-In2O3
particles into the lungs of Wistar rats were dose-dependent increased the concentrations of serum indium.
Sunlight-Driven Photocatalytic Degradation of Methyl Orange Based on Bismuth Ferrite (BiFeO3) Heterostructures Composed of Interconnected Nanosheets
Authors: Ruby S. , Rosaline D. Rani , Inbanathan S. S. R. , Anand K. , Kavitha G. , Srinivasan R. , Umar Ahmad , Hegazy H. H. , Algarni Hamed
Published: September 2019

Herein, we report the facile microwave-assisted synthesis, characterization and photocatalytic degradation applications of Bismuth ferrite heterostructures composed of interconnected nanosheets (BHNs). The synthesized materials were subjected to several analytical studies such as scanning
electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and UV-visible spectroscopy in order to examine the morphological, structural, optical and photo catalytic properties.
The structural and morphological characterizations confirmed the rhombohedral perovskite crystal structure and the formation of heterostructures composed of interconnected nanosheets for the synthesized material. The compositional characterization revealed that the synthesized material is
bismuth ferrite with high purity. The BHNs were further used as efficient photocatalyst for the photocatalytic degradation of highly hazardous pollutant methyl orange under sunlight irradiation. The sunlight driven photocatalytic experiments revealed ~86% photodegradation of methyl orange
dye in 150 min. The presented work revealed that the synthesized BHNs are excellent material for the photocatalytic degradation of various organic contaminants and hazardous pollutants.
Influence of Metal Oxides Nanoparticles on Pathogenicity of Steinernema carpocapsae Nematodes Against Lepidopteran Galleria mellonella
Authors: Makirita Winisia E. , Zhang Fengqin , Mbega Ernest R. , He Nongyue , Li Xiaolong , Chacha Musa , Liu Tonghua
Published: September 2019

Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) have been cited as a safe and effective method for pest management. Their virulence against lepidopterans and other foliar pest has been demonstrated in the laboratory, but achieving field efficacy is challenged with environmental conditions such as
desiccation and ultraviolet radiations. Nanoparticles (NPs) as UV-blocking agents have been reported to provide an alternative approach to enhance the EPNs efficacy. We screened the effect of ZnO, TiO2 and Fe3O4 NPs on survival and pathogenicity of EPNs, and
determined whether the nanoparticles could provide protection to the EPNs at low concentrations when applied in direct sunlight. All nanoparticles had less influence on the survival of infective juveniles and did not deprive their pathogenic properties following prolonged exposure. The survival
rate of nematodes decreased with increased concentrations, with no measurable difference between NPs. Moreover, the survival rate of nematodes exposed to UV radiation in different formulation decreased significantly with the increase in exposure time (p < 0.001). On the other side
when EPNs in nanoparticles formulations were exposed to sunlight, their efficacy significantly improved by protecting nematodes from ultraviolet radiation when compared to the water-based formulation. Pathogenic efficacy after exposure to sunlight was in the order of ZnO > TiO2
> Fe3O4 > H2O, indicating the compatibility of nematodes and NPs, and the benefit of different NPs in EPNs formulations. General nanoparticles are novel ingredients that provide suitable protection of EPNs for management of foliar pests. However, the
EPNs nanoparticles formulation under a specific agricultural system and climatic condition need to be established.
Investigation on Electromagnetic Wave Absorption of SiCw/Si3N4 Composites Exposed to Short-Time Oxidation
Authors: Wen Zhongliu , Zhou Wei , Long Lan , Li Yang
Published: September 2019

As oxidation is inevitable during application of microwave absorbing materials (MAM) exposed to oxygen-containing atmosphere at elevated temperatures. The investigations concerning influences of oxidation on microstructure and microwave absorption (MA) properties are of great significance.
Aiming to better regulating MA for Si3N4-based ceramics serviced in high temperature environment, the evolution of MA properties of SiCw/Si3N4 composites (SwSN) after oxidation at 1200 °C in ambient air for short time was studied.
It was found that after oxidation for 7.5 h, both the real and imaginary permittivity of SwSN showed only slight decrease due to good oxidation protection provided by dense SiO2 layer formed on the surface. Moreover, SwSN after short-time of oxidation also
showed an almost negligible decline in MA properties. SwSN which has good oxidation resistance and stable microwave attenuation abilities was subjected to oxidation at 1200 °C for short time. The results showed its favorable and potential applications in high-temperature microwave
absorption fields.