bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Engineering Alkoxyphenacyl-Polycarbonate Nanoparticles for Potential Application in Near-Infrared Light-Modulated Drug Delivery via Photon Up-Conversion Process
Authors: Wehrung Daniel , Chamsaz Elaheh A , Andrews James H , Joy Abraham , Oyewumi Moses O
Published: March 2017

Photoresponsive delivery systems that are activated by high energy photo-triggers have been accorded much attention because of the capability to achieve reliable photoreactions at short irradiation times. However, the application of a high energy photo-trigger (UV light) is not clinically
viable. Meanwhile, the process of photon-upconversion is an effective strategy to generate a high energy photo-trigger (in-situ) through exposure to clinically relevant near-infrared (NIR) light. In this regard, we synthesized photon upconverting nanocrystals (UCNCs) that were subsequently
loaded into photoresponsive nanoparticles (NPs) that were prepared using alkoxyphenacyl-based polycarbonate homopolymer (UCNC-APP-NPs). UCNC loading affected resultant NP size, size distribution, colloidal stability but not the zeta potential. The efficiency of NIR-modulated drug delivery
was impacted by the heterogenetic nature of the resultant UCNC-APP-NPs which was plausibly formed through a combination of UCNC entrapment within the polymeric NP matrix and nucleation of polymer coating on the surface of the UCNCs. The biocompatibility of UCNC-APP-NPs was demonstrated through
cytotoxicity, macrophage activation, and red blood cell lysis assays. Studies in tumor-bearing (nu/nu) athymic mice showed a negligible distribution of UCNC-APP-NPs to reticuloendothelial tissues. Further, distribution of UCNC-APP-NPs to various tissues was in the order (highest to lowest):
Lungs > Tumor > Kidneys > Liver > Spleen > Brain > Blood > Heart. In all, the work highlighted some important factors that may influence the effectiveness, reproducibility and biocompatibility of drug delivery systems that operate on the process of photon-upconversion.
Production of Cellulose Nanowhiskers from Oil Palm Mesocarp Fibers by Acid Hydrolysis and Microfluidization
Authors: Campos Adriana de , Neto Alfredo R. de Sena , Rodrigues Vanessa B , Kuana Vanessa A , Correa Ana Carolina , Takahashi Marcio C , Mattoso Luiz H. C , Marconcini José M
Published: March 2017

In the present study, oil palm mesocarp fibers (OPMF), an agroindustrial residue from the production of palm oil, were used to obtain cellulose nanowhiskers. They were obtained from bleaching of fibers, followed by hydrolysis using sulfuric acid and microfkuidization, to control the
length of cellulose nanowhiskers and avoid a decrease in thermal stability with extended acid hydrolysis time. The results showed that the nanowhiskers obtained by acid hydrolysis for 105 min resulted in structures with an average length (L) of 117 ± 54 nm and diameter (D)
of 10 ± 5 nm. After 105 min of acid hydrolysis, the suspension was dialyzed and the neutral suspension was subjected to microfku- idization. At this time the nanowhiskers presented the same dimensions, even with the fibrils disintegration of both amorphous and crystalline phases, during
the microfkuidization. However, after microfkuidization, the sample presented a more stable suspension, but the crystallinity decreased. Increasing the hydrolysis time from 105 to 140 min, more sulfonated nanowhiskers were obtained, presenting lower thermal stability, but higher crystallinity
than the microfkuidized sample. Furthermore, this study proved that it is possible to obtain cellulose nanowhiskers from oil palm mesocarp fibers, an agroindustrial residue from the palm oil production, helping to reduce the environmental impact of this waste, as well as providing the obtaining
of a high value-added product.
Highly Selective and Sensitive Colorimetric Sensor for Aminotriazole Residues in Vegetables and Fruits Using Glutathione Functionalized Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Wu Huixiang , Huo Danqun , Jiang Hailong , Dong Liang , Ma Yi , Hou Changjun , Fa Huanbao , Yang Mei , Luo Xiaogang , Li Junjie , Shen Caihong
Published: March 2017

Aminotriazole is among the most popular carbamates herbicide that are widely used to boost food production, and its residues pose a great threat to human health and the environment. Herein, we presented a new colorimetric sensor for the detection of aminotriazole residues based on the
aggregation of glutathione functionalized gold nanoparticles (GSH-AuNPs). The AuNPs were synthesized by the reduction of chloroauric acid (HAuCl4 · 4H2O) via trisodium citrate (C6H5Na3O7 · 2H2O) and
characterized by UV-visible spectrometer and TEM. And GSH-AuNPs were prepared using simple green one-pot method. Determination of aminotriazole were carried out under optimal detection condition based on the aggregation of AuNPs induced by the synergistic effects of electrostatic interaction,
hydrogen bond and size selectivity between GSH and aminotriazole, which gave the clear color and UV-vis spectrum change. The sensor showed good ability of anti-disturbance and displayed wide linear relationship with aminotriazole concentrations varying from 0.59 to 21.40 μM with
low detection limit of 0.27 μM. The recovery in the spiked cabbages and apples were measured to be between 91.96% and 105.90%. These preliminary results demonstrate that as-prepared AuNPs sensor would be a promising candidate for fast aminotriazole analysis in real application.
Enhanced Optical and Electrical Properties of P25 Titanium Dioxide Incorporated Polycaprolactone Nanocomposites
Authors: Saravanamoorthy S , Bose A. Chandra , Velmathi S
Published: March 2017

The fabrication of polymer nanocomposites based on polycaprolactone (PCL) and Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles was successfully carried out via solution casting technique. The structural properties of prepared nanocomposites such as lattice parameters, crystallite size
etc have been studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), the interactions between PCL and TiO2 was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and surface morphology was evaluated by field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) analysis. In this study, the inorganic
nanofiller TiO2 was successfully incorporated in PCL matrix with different weight percentage such as 1, 3 and 5 wt%. The electrical properties of the corresponding nanocomposites (PCL + 1% TiO2, PCL + 3% TiO2 and PCL + 5% TiO2) were investigated
and showed good results when compared to pure PCL. The dielectric constant, dielectric loss, electric modulus and electrical conductivity were measured in the frequency range of 10−2 to 107 Hz.
Preparation, Characterization and In Vitro Biological Evaluation of Nano-Tubular Polyoxometalate
Authors: Hassan Sadaf ul , Hasan Murtaza , Firdous Attia , Farid Muhammad Asim
Published: March 2017

Development of nano size drug delivery and targeting system without any side effect is main concern of researcher in the field of biomedical application. In this work, polyoxometalate based one-dimensional nano-tubular arrays have been designed by layer-by-layer (LBL) deposition method.
These nanotubes were characterized by FT-IR, UV-vis., techniques and the morphology was studied by using SEM. The particle size analyzer was used to obtain the size range of the nanotubes which was found to be in the range is 80 to 200 nm. These nanotubes based polyoxometalates were further
investigated to test the cytotoxicity and changes in the cell morphology under different concentrations. The results indicate that synthesized polyoxometalate based one-dimensional nano-tubular arrays are feasible for effective drug carriers without any lethal effect on cell and could be potentially
useful vector for delivery of genes, antibodies, and proteins in future.
Preparation and Characterization of AgBr/BiOCOOH Composite Photocatalysts with High Photocatalytic Performances Under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Cheng Xiaofang , Meng Xiaoting , Dan Yuanyuan , Feng Hongwu
Published: March 2017

A series of flower-like AgBr/BiOCOOH composite photocatalysts have been successfully synthesized by a simple two-step solvothermal method. The techniques of XRD, SEM, TEM, DRS, XRF and XPS were used to characterize the phases, compositions and microstructures of the composite photocatalysts.
The photocatalytic activities of the composites were evaluated by degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) dye and Methylene blue (MB) dye as the simulated reaction under visible light irradiation. The results indicated that the AgBr/BiOCOOH composite photocatalysts had higher photodegradation efficiency
than the pure AgBr and BiOCOOH under visible light irradiation. Among them, the 20% AgBr/BiOCOOH sample exhabits the best photocatalytic activity.
A Facile and Universal Route to Mass Yield Multifunctional Janus Nanoparticles and Their Sensing of a Tumor Biomarker
Authors: Li Wanrong , Li Na , Jia Weijiao , Zhang Jingwei , Gong Pei , Zhang Feng
Published: March 2017

The controlled material distribution is important for creating anisotropic building blocks and introduces an extra design parameter. Recently, Janus particles have garnered much interest due to their anisotropic properties for many applications in research and technology. In this paper,
we reported a one-step-two-phase emulsion synthesis approach as a universal route to prepare Janus nanoparticles with multifunctional (like plasmonic, magnetic and fluorescent) properties. By using magnetic and fluorescent Janus nanoparticles to replace the fixed primary capture antibodies
on microtiter plates and enzyme-linked secondary antibodies for colorimetric detection, respectively, the in vitro detection of prostate specific agents conducted under the consideration of simplifying the traditional enzyme-linked immune sorbent assay, and the linear concentration-dependent
detection range can fit for the current clinical diagnostic requirements. We hope this mass yield multifunctional Janus nanoparticles’ method could shed light to those fields of both traditional colorimetric biosensing and modern precision medicine.
Formation and Characterization of Nanobubbles Conjugating Peptide Targeting GPC3 of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Wu Size
Published: March 2017

Fabrication of a kind of glypican 3 targeted nanobubbles for contrast enhanced ultrasound imaging was reported in this work. The targeting nanobubbles were formatted using PLGA as shell and perfluorocarbon as core, with a double emulsion (water/oil/water) evaporation process, and conjugating
peptide as targeting ligand. The Peptide/PLGA/NBs were characterized in vitro. Results: The mean diameter of Peptide/PLGA NBs was 773.6±185.4 nm and zeta potential was −22.3 ±3.3 mV, their sizes were nanoscale in general, their uniform was not very well, and diameters
were discrete. Ultrasonic imaging evaluation of Peptide/PLGA NBs in vitro showed which had significant differences of echo intensities with different concentration gradients. Peptide/PLGA NBs could target GPC3 of HCC cells in vitro. Conclusions: The GPC3 targeted nanobubbles
(Peptide/PLGA NBs) have been developed, which have potential to develop into ultrasound contrast agents. Optimization of the Peptide/PLGA NBs is necessary to decrease the size of NBs and to narrow dispersity of NBs, and further research needs to be done to evaluate the characteristics of Peptide/PLGA
NBs in vivo.
Polymer-Based Liner TSV Fabrication Scheme and Its Resistance Variation
Authors: Lee Shih-Wei , Shih Jian-Yu , Chen Kuo-Hua , Chiu Chi-Tsung , Chen Kuan-Neng
Published: March 2017

In this paper, a process scheme for polymer TSV fabrication is proposed to solve the difficulty of polymer liner formation in TSV technology. By using ring trench etching and BCB deposition in a vacuum environment, uniform BCB liner can be successfully fabricated. Electrical measurement
by using Kelvin structure is completed to ensure the performance of fabrication. However, a new phenomenon causing tiny resistance changes with the arrangement of TSV is discovered during the measurement of TSV chain. In this research, this effect is discussed in detail by designing different
design of experiment (DOE) to pursue good electrical connection and reduce the variance of delay property of each TSV. Based on statistical results, impacts of TSV manufacturing process variance are discussed and the guideline in high density TSV design is found.
Green Synthesis of Pectin-Gold-PLA-PEG-PLA Nanoconjugates: In Vitro Cytotoxicity and Anti-Inflammatory Activity
Authors: Reena K , Prabakaran M , Leeba B , Gajendiran M , Antony S. Arul
Published: March 2017

The gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have been synthesized by a green chemical approach using the biopolymer pectin which is isolated from the orange peel. The pectin-AuNPs nanoconjugates are attached on the PLA-PEG-PLA triblock copolymer matrix by the ultra-sonication induced water-in-oil
(W/O) emulsion method. The pectin-AuNPs-PLA-PEG-PLA nanoconjugates are characterized by UV-Visible absorption spectroscopy, X-Ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), selected area electron diffraction (SAED), energy dispersive X-Ray spectroscopy (EDS) and X-Ray photo
electron spectroscopy (XPS). The XPS results confirm the zero oxidation state of Au, while the TEM images confirm the spherical shape of 7–13 nm of AuNPs. The XRD analysis reveals that the AuNPs exhibit fcc crystal structure with an average crystallite size of 12 nm. The biocompatibility
of the pectin-AuNPs-PLA-PEG-PLA nanoconjugates has been investigated by the In Vitro cell line study on South African green monkey’s kidney cells. The anti-inflammatory activity of the nanoconjugates has been established by the membrane stabilization and inhibition of protein
denaturation methods. The pectin-AuNPs-PLA-PEG-PLA nanoconjugates exhibit better anti-inflammatory activity than pectin and pectin-AuNPs.
Novel DOPO-Modified Graphene: Synthesis and Characterization
Authors: Hu Changqing , Yu Tao , Li Yan
Published: March 2017

Graphene, as a new nanomaterial with excellent mechanical properties, has raised great interest among researchers. In this work, 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide (DOPO), has been covalently grafted onto the surface of graphene through two different methods to get a new
modified graphene (G-DOPO) which owns great mechanical property and flame retardancy. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirmed that DOPO covalently bonded to the surface of graphene. Transmission electron microscopy
(TEM) was used to observe the microstructure of G-DOPO. The thermal stability of G-DOPO was evaluated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The G-DOPO showed a higher thermal stability than graphite oxide (GO), and this material could be utilized as an excellent potential flame retardant.
Preparation of TiO2/Cobalt Ferrite/Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposite Based Magnetically Separable Catalyst with Improved Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Ghosh Barun Kumar , Moitra Debabrata , Chandel Madhurya , Ghosh Narendra Nath
Published: March 2017

We report a simple synthetic route for the preparation of titanium dioxide (TiO2), cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) nanoparticle and reduced graphene oxide (RGO) based nanocomposites TiO2/CoFe2O4/RGO. This is the first time a
non-hydrothermal technique is reported for preparation of TiO2/CoFe2O4/RGO nanocomposites. Moreover, unlike other reported methods only water was used as reaction medium. Catalytic activity of synthesized nanocomposites towards degradation of various dyes,
such as Methyl Orange, Rhodamine B, Methylene Blue under visible light were investigated. Catalysis reactions were monitored by using UV-vis spectroscopy. TiO2/CoFe2O4/RGO exhibited its high capability to act as an excellent magnetically separable catalyst
towards degradation of various dyes under visible light. The high catalytic activity and simple preparation methodology make TiO2/CoFe2O4/RGO nanocomposites an attractive catalyst for degradation of hazardous organic dyes.
Reduction of Schottky Barrier Height, Turn on Voltage, Leakage Current and High Responsivity of Li Doped ZnO Nanorod Arrays Based Schottky Diode
Authors: Kamruzzaman M , Zapien J. A
Published: March 2017

1D ZnO nanostructures have been considerable interests due to their unique structures and properties as well as potential applications as building blocks of nanodevices. The Zn1−xLixO NR arrays were grown on p-Si substrate by an inexpensive
environment friendly hydrothermal process followed by forming Au/Zn1−xLixO NRs Schottky photodiodes. The diodes show excellent rectifying property in dark and the rectification to be 1.19 × 102 and 6.26 × 102 at 2.4 V, for Au/ZnO
and Au/LZO NRs diodes, respectively. It is interesting that Li doped diode shows negative shift of the turn on voltage (Von) and the rapidly increasing forward current as well as low leakage current which are of great benefit to minimize the power loss and an improving switching
characteristics of rectifier devices. The obtained ideality factor is greater than unity. The value of barrier height obtained from I–V measurements is smaller than the value obtained from C–V measurements. The responsivity is higher for Li doped diode (0.13 A/W)
than undoped (0.05 A/W) even the commercial GaN UV detector (0.1 A/W). Thus, good crystallinity and excellent Schottky diode rectifying properties of Au/ZnLiO NRs diode on p-Si substrate, enabling efficient electronics nanodevices and nanoscale UV-photodetection sensors.
Effect of Bismuth Lipophilic Nanoparticles (BisBAL NPs) on Trichomonas vaginalis Growth
Authors: Rodríguez-Luis Osvelia E , Hernández-Delgadillo Rene , Pineda-Aguilar Nayely , Vargas-Villarreal Javier , González-Salazar Francisco , Garza-González Jesús Norberto , Hernández-García Magda Elizabeth , Chellam Shankararaman , Cabral-Romero Claudio
Published: March 2017

The most common treatment to trichomoniasis is the use of metronidazole; however several studies have shown that at least 5% of clinical cases of trichomoniasis are caused by parasites resistant to the drug. Lipophilic bismuth nanoparticles (BisBAL NPs) have an important antimicrobial
activity; however the influence of BisBAL NPs on human parasites has not been studied. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of bismuth lipophilic nanoparticles on Trichomonas vaginalis growth. The bismuth nanoparticles synthesized by colloidal method are composed
of ≥ 100 nm crystallites and have a spherical structure, agglomerating into clusters of small nanoparticles. Based on cell viability assays and fluorescence microscopy, Trichomonas vaginalis growth was inhibited with the addition of 62.5–125 μg/mL of BisBAL NPs. Fluorescence
micrographs showed live T. vaginalis in absence of any drug treatment and after exposed for 24 h. with 500 μg/mL of BisBAL NPs or 1.3 μg/mL metronidazole a dark background was observed with cellular debris stain. In summary, here we present evidence for first time
of the antiparasitic activity of lipophilic bismuth nanoparticles being as effective as metronidazole to interfere with T. vaginalis growth. BisBAL nanoparticles could be an interesting alternative to treat and prevent parasitic infections.
Transparent Conductive Oxide-Less Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells Consisting of Dye-Cocktail and Cobalt Based Redox Electrolyte
Authors: Molla Md. Zaman , Baranwal Ajay K , Pandey Shyam S , Ma Tingil , Hayase Shuzi
Published: March 2017

Thin Ti-metal protected stainless steel metal mesh coated with mesoporous TiO2 as flexible photoanode has been used to fabricate back contact transparent conductive oxide-less dye-sensitized solar cells. TiO2 nanoparticle having a particle size of 15–20 nm
sensitized with dye cocktail of two indoline dyes D-205 and D-131 were first utilized owing to their complementary light harvesting properties. Short-circuit photocurrent density (Jsc) for the dye cocktail combination of D-205 and D-131 (1:1) was found to be increased due
to the increased photon harvesting in the 400–500 nm mainly associated with the contribution from D-131 dye. In addition, the electron recombination was suppressed when dye cocktail was employed as confirmed by the dark current measurement leading to higher open-circuit voltage (Voc).
The enhanced Jsc accompanied with increased Voc resulted in to an improved efficiency of 3.59% for this cocktail combination. To enhance the efficiency even further, we have utilized TiO2 nanoparticle having a larger particle size of 30 nm facilitating
the mass transport of the bulky [Co(bpy)3]3+/2+ redox species. In order to enhance the photon harvesting window TiO2 nanoparticles were sensitized with porphyrin dye (YD2-o-C8) along with different dye cocktail combinations with another complementary dye (Y123).
Utilization of a dye cocktail of YD2-o-C8 and Y123 (4:1) led to improved photoconversion efficiency of 5.25% under simulated solar irradiation.
Efficiency, Mechanism and Kinetics Research of CO2 Photo Reduction by Graphene-TiO2 Under Visible Light
Authors: Zhang Qian , Liu Fang , Hong Jun Ming , Lin Cheng-Fang , Chang Chang-Tang
Published: March 2017

Carbon dioxide (CO2) resulting from the burning of organic carbons has aroused serious concern because of increasing concentrations in the atmosphere and its effect on global warming. Therefore, finding an efficient method for CO2 utilization is important. In this
research, CO2 underwent efficient reduction when graphene (GN)-TiO2 was used as a catalyst under visible light irradiation. The radicals involved in the reaction as intermediates were observed by ESR to identify the reduction pathways. Furthermore, the hypothetical pathways
were verified by the steady-state approximation model. The calculated rate constants of the final products and intermediates (including radicals) indicated that the formation of CH3OH was mainly derived from ·CO– rather than from HCOOH. Furthermore, the effects of GN
loading, catalyst loading, and light source were also discussed. Optimal performance was achieved at 0.4 g L−1of 40% GN-TiO2 loading under visible light irradiation.
Graphene Quantum Dots Functionalized by Chitosan and β-Cyclodextrin: An Advanced Nanocomposite for Sensing of Multi-Analytes at Physiological pH
Authors: Hasanzadeh Mohammad , Shadjou Nasrin , Marandi Maryam
Published: March 2017

This article describes a new alternative approach to the fabrication of electrochemical sensors based on the graphene quantum dots (GQDs) functionalized with chitosan and β-cyclodextrin. The graphene quantum dots functionalized with chitosan and β-cyclodextrin
are shown to exhibit electrochemical performance that rivals that of GQDs modified glassy carbon electrode and display excellent properties against severe electrochemically sensors. The graphene quantum dots functionalized with chitosan and β-cyclodextrin electrodes is further
extended to the demonstration of novel electrochemical sensors through the transfer of the electrode fabricated by GQDs. For comparison of the recognition efficiency, other electrodes including bare glassy carbone electrode (GCE), and GQDs modified glassy carbone electrode (GQDs-GCE) were
used for the control experiments. The resulting sensors demonstrate a wide range of usability, from the detection of various physiological analytes, including uric acid, ascorbic acid, dopamine to the identification of some amino acids. Comparison of recorded cyclic voltamograms in the presence
of L-cysteine, dopamine, uric acid, L-Tyrosine, L-Phenylalanine, and ascorbic acid using GQD-CS-GCE, -CD-GQDs-GCE shows ΔEp was decreased as β-CD-GQDs-GCE > CS-GQD-GCE > GQDs-GCE. The larger lowering of the overvoltage observed in the presence of β-CD-GQDs-GCE
clearly indicates the essential role of β-CD in the observed electrocatalytical behaviour. In general, the attachment of chitosan and β-cyclodextrin to structure of GQDs provides new opportunities within the personal healthcare, fitness, forensics, homeland security,
and environmental monitoring domains.
Synthesis and Electrochemical Properties of CuCo2O4 as Anode Material for Lithium-Ion Battery
Authors: Lu Lin , Min Feixia , Luo Zhaohui , Wang Shiquan , Teng Fei , Li Guohua , Feng Chuanqi
Published: March 2017

The precursors of CuCo2O4 (CCO) were synthesized by ball-milling method and solvothermal method, respectively. The precursors were further heat-treated at a low temperature (450 °C) in air to obtain CuCo2O4. The SEM results showed that
the CCO (B-CCO) whose precursor was synthesized by ball-milling method present uneven particles, while the CCO (S-CCO) whose precursor was synthesized by solvothermal method takes on microsphere morphology. When tested as anode materials for lithium ion battery (LIB), the as-prepared CuCo2O4
(S-CCO) synthesized by solvothermal method followed with pyrolysis exhibits better electrochemical performance than that for CuCo2O4 (B-CCO) synthesized by ball-milling method followed with pyrolysis. Both the B-CCO and S-CCO exhibit high discharge capacities, good cycling
stability and rate performance as anode materials for LIB. Especially, S-CCO behaves a large initial capacity of 1230 mAh/g, whose reversible capacity can matain as high as 635 mAh/g after 100 cycles, showing better rate performance compared with the B-CCO. The good electrochemical performance
suggests that CuCo2O4 could be a promising candidate as a novel anode material for LIB applications, and our present work provides a new and simple approach to the fabrication of binary metal oxides (BMOs).
The Remarkable Efficiency of Melanin Reduction by Using Functional Organelle, Lysosomes
Authors: Park Dong Jun , Kim Yang-Hoon , Min Jiho
Published: March 2017

Lysosomes have reported that lysosomal intensity increased depending by aging. Lysosome and melanosome have some relations because melanosome has same producing pathway with lysosomes. Therefore we evaluated lysosomal intensity with efficiency of melanin reduction. We found that lysosomes
can decrease the amount of melanin by their specialized functions in vivo. The melanin quantity compared in melanocytes after exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and α-melanocyte stimulation hormone (α-MSH) for evaluation expression level on different influence.
Additionally, we compared the ability to reduce the amount of melanin after exposure to oxidative stress. Lastly we treated lysosomes isolated from HeLa cells to reduce melanin in melanocytes. 2% lysosomes were effective in reducing the amount of melanin in cells. Therefore, we conclude that
lysosomes are a useful bio agent for decreasing the amount of melanin.
Thickness Control of Chemical Vapor Deposition-Grown Graphene Film by Oxygen Plasma Etching with Recycled Use of Ni Catalyst
Authors: Kim Seon Joon , Kim Dae Woo , Choi Hyung Ouk , Jung Hee-Tae
Published: March 2017

Ni has been widely used as one of the most important metal catalysts for graphene growth with the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method. Despite the many advantages, it is difficult to obtain high quality graphene from Ni due to the complexity in controlling the uniformity and thickness
of multilayer graphene films. In this study, the thickness of multilayer graphene films grown on Ni was controlled by single-step oxygen plasma etching. The results show that the thickness of the graphene films proportionally decreased with an increase in the plasma etching time where the
thickness was controlled from thick graphite films to thin graphene films with a transparency over 80%. Surface topology after oxygen plasma etching showed that uniform etching was achieved, for which the topmost surface of the resulting thin graphene is hydrophilic because of oxygen plasma
irradiation, which is advantageous for coating organic layers in device fabrication. Moreover, because of the absence of a metal etching process, the recycled use of Ni catalysts is available, increasing the cost efficiency.
Properties of Lead Telluride Mid-Infrared Imaging Devices of Focal Plane Arrays
Authors: Yasuda Arata , Kurabayashi Toru , Suto Ken , Nishizawa Jun-Ichi
Published: March 2017

We fabricated p–n-junction-type and Schottky barrier (SB)-type lead telluride (PbTe) mid-infrared focal plane arrays (FPAs) using a flip-chip bonder. The detection wavelength peak of the SB-type FPA shifted from 6.10 μm to 4.95 μm as the ambient temperature
was increased from −258.15°C to −148.15°C. At −196.5°C, the detection wavelength peak and cut-off wavelength were 5.68μm and 6.16μm, respectively. The p–n-junction-type FPA yielded the sharpest photoconductivity spectrum among
the investigated devices, presumably because of the Tl-related deep levels in its p-type PbTe epitaxial layer. These deep levels absorb the mid-infrared light and cut off the detection wavelength range. Thus, the p–n-junction-type FPAs are expected to be employed in vision
cameras and sensors with selectable mid-infrared wavelengths. Meanwhile, the SB-type FPA has a high dielectric constant; consequently, it develops a wide depletion layer that detects a wide range of mid-infrared wavelengths. FPAs based on the PbTe system are potentially implementable in simple,
highly sensitive, mid-infrared imaging devices with a wide scan range.
CuFe2O4-Encapsulated ZnO Nanoplates: Magnetically Retrievable Biocidal Photocatalyst
Authors: Karunakaran Chockalingam , Vinayagamoorthy Pazhamalai , Jayabharathi Jayaraman
Published: March 2017

CuFe2O4-encapsulated ZnO nanoplates have been synthesized by hydrothermal procedure and characterized by scanning (SEM) and transmission (TEM) electron microscopies, selected area electron (SAED) and X-ray (XRD) diffractometries, vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM)
and energy dispersive X-ray (EDS), Raman, solid state electrochemical impedance (EIS), UV-visible diffuse reflectance (DRS), photoluminescence (PL) and time-correlated single photon counting (TCSPC) lifetime spectroscopies. The lifetime of charge carriers produced in CuFe2O4/ZnO
is not less than that in ZnO nanoplates. So is the photocatalytic activity. The magnetically recoverable CuFe2O4/ZnO nanoplates show sustainable photocatalytic activity on recycling. The composite nanoplates are bactericide as well. They inactivate E. coli effectively,
even in the absence of direct light. The synthesized photostable CuFe2O4-encapsulated ZnO nanoplates are three-in-one material.
Fe–Fe3C/C Fibers as a Highly Efficient Microwave Absorbent
Authors: Li Wanxi , Qi Hongxue , Du Yi-En
Published: March 2017

As electromagnetic pollution is becoming more and more serious, novel composite microwave absorbents are gaining much attention. In this work, Fe–Fe3C/C fibers were successfully synthesized by using low-cost cotton as carbon source. The synthetic route was an easy and
flexible two-step approach consisting of immersion and subsequent carbothermal reduction in N2 atmosphere. The results showed that the Fe–Fe3C nanoparticles were uniformly loaded on the cotton-based carbon fibers. Resulting from the synergistic effect of magnetic loss from
Fe–Fe3C nanoparticles and dielectric loss from cotton-based carbon fibers, a wide region of microwave absorption was achieved. When the thickness is 1.5 mm, the minimum reflection loss (RL) is −28.3 dB, and the effective bandwidth of RL less than −10 dB could reach
up to 4.2 GHz. Owing to the characteristics of cost-effective synthetic route, low density, low filling rate and good microwave absorption with thin thickness, the Fe–Fe3C/C fibers could be used as a practical microwave absorbent.
Kinetics of Light-Driven Oxygen Evolution at Nanostructured Hematite Semiconductor Electrodes
Authors: Schrebler Ricardo , Ballesteros Luis A , Gómez Humberto , Grez Paula , Córdova Ricardo , Muñoz Eduardo , Schrebler Rodrigo , Sessarego Gustavo , Martín Francisco , Ramos-Barrado José R , Dalchiele Enrique A
Published: March 2017

Hematite nanostructures have been electrochemically grown by ultrasound-assisted anodization of iron substrates in an ethylene glycol based medium. This hematite nano-architecture has been tuned from a 1-D nanoporous layer (grown onto a bare iron foil substrate) to a high aspect self-organized
nanotube one (grown onto a pretreated iron foil). Well-developed hematite nanotube arrays perpendicular to the substrate with a 1 μm in length have been obtained. The nanoporous sample was characterized by pores of a mean diameter of 30 nm and an interpore distance of 150 nm, whereas
the self-organized nanotube layer consisted of nanotube arrays with a single tube inner diameter of approximately 50 nm and average spacing of approximately 90 nm. The wall thickness of the hematite nanotubes was of approximately 30 nm. A comparative study of the photoelectrochemical properties
of these two different hematite nanostructures under water-splitting conditions have been studied through EIS and PEIS methods. The strong correlation between the CSS increase with the RSS,ct decrease and the photocurrent development as the potential is
made more anodic, indicated that holes transfer for the water splitting reaction takes place through the surface states and not directly from valence band holes. From the PEIS spectra the rate constants of the elementary reactions responsible for the competing processes of interfacial charge
transfer (ktr and electron–hole recombination (krec have been determined. A better photoresponse kinetic was observed from the hematite nanotubular structure as compared to the nanoporous one. The last indicates that in the hematite nanotubular structure
it exists a very well length scale matching between the nanotube wall thickness and the hole diffusion length (maximize light absorption while maintaining the bulk within hole collection length), diminishing then the recombination processes.
Advanced Properties in Fe-Doped Zirconia Nanoparticles
Authors: Calatayud José Miguel , Pardo Pablo , Alarcón Javier
Published: March 2017

Discrete, well-shaped monoclinic Fe-doped ZrO2 nanoparticles were prepared in the range of nominal compositions Zr1−xFexO2−x/2, being 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.1 by a hydrothermal approach and their optical and
chemical properties evaluated for potential application as photocatalysts. Monoclinic Fe-containing ZrO2 nanoparticles sized around 20 nm were obtained straightaway from the reagent mixture through the hydrothermal aging at 140 °C for 3 days. The thermal stability of those mono-clinic
Fe–ZrO2 solid solutions was followed by X-ray diffraction, infrared and Raman spectroscopies, and scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Further annealing at 800 °C brought monosized, monoclinic single-phase Fe-containing ZrO2 nanocrystals without significant
microstructural changes. On comparing with other not conventional synthetic approaches to zirconia based solid solutions, it is to remark that the present hydrothermal approach lead to monoclinic form of zirconia solid solution. Some preliminary results on potential advanced applications of
the prepared monoclinic Fe–ZrO2 solid solutions as photocatalysts will be discussed.
Recent Advances on Fe-Based Magnetic Nanoparticles in Organic Transformations
Authors: Payra Soumen , Saha Arijit , Banerjee Subhash
Published: March 2017

Fe-based magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have attracted much attention due to its unique properties like high surface reactivity and selectivity, easy separation by external magnet and recyclability. Here, in this review, recent advances on Fe-based MNPs promoted multicomponent reactions
(MCRs), oxidation/reduction reactions and carbon–carbon/carbon–heteroatom bond formation reactions have been discussed.
Iron Oxide Nanoparticles in Soils: Environmental and Agronomic Importance
Authors: Claudio Colombo , Iorio Erika di , Liu Qingsong , Jiang Zhaoxia , Barrón Vidal
Published: March 2017

The iron (Fe) oxide particles affect a wide range of important environmental processes related to soil fertility and plant growth. They often occur as aggregates, mineral nanoparticles or as nanoscale coatings on other grains in the soil, where they may also control the fate and transport
of nutrients such as phosphate, sulfate, molybdate and pollutants (arsenic or chromium). Solubilization of Fe from minerals control iron availability for plant growth; this process is regulated by chemical mechanisms (pH and dissolution-precipitation), sometimes mediated by biological interactions
at rhizosphere scale, of both Fe crystalline and poorly ordered Fe oxide minerals. In cold and temperate climate the organic carbon storage and the Fe minerals are highly correlated, possibly because the interactions of nano-size iron oxide particles with humic substances. The aims of this
review are to summarize the main findings and the classical iron soil chemistry and to propose chemical and biological relationships with the hope of stimulating new model in soil fertility.
Facile Synthesis of Ultrafine Akaganeite Nanoparticles for the Removal of Hexavalent Chromium: Adsorption Properties, Isotherm and Kinetics
Authors: Obregón Sergio , Mendoza-Reséndez Raquel , Luna Carlos
Published: March 2017

Here, we report the preparation of rather spherical akaganeite (β-FeOOH) nanoparticles with a mean diameter of ~5 nm by means of a hydrolysis procedure. The obtained material was widely characterized by several techniques such as X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform
Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The textural and surface properties were studied through the analysis of the surface area (BET), pore size distribution (BJH) and the point of zero charge, pHPZC. The β-FeOOH nanoparticles
were used to evaluate the removal of Cr(VI) from aqueous systems. The results reveal that the optimal adsorption conditions were under acidic pH values (pH ~ 4.5). The adsorption kinetic data fit well with a pseudo-second-order model while the Langmuir isotherm describes the adsorption equilibrium
conditions of the system. The maximum adsorption capacity of the β-FeOOH was estimated in 56.5 mg/g from the Langmuir isotherm at 25 °C.
Electrochemical Synthesis and Photocatalytic Properties of α-Fe2O3
Authors: Isaev A. B , Shabanov N. S , Orudzhev F. F , Giraev K. M , Emirov R. M
Published: March 2017

The electrochemical method was used to synthesize hematite (α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles in the 0.1 M NaCl solution. The α-Fe2O3 were synthesized by dissolution the iron anode with formation the Fe(OH)x and its calcinations
at different temperatures. The samples were characterized by means by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman and UV-vis spectroscopy, electron microscopy, EDX and FTIR. The photocatalytic oxidation of the mordant dye Chrome blue (CB) using electrochemical synthesize hematite was studied under ultraviolet
light (UV-light) irradiations. The effect of hematite calcination temperature and hydrogen peroxide concentration on photocatalytic degradation of chrome blue was carried out. Increasing the annealing temperature are increases the degree of dye decolorization which connected with the gradually
increasing proportion of the crystalline phase at the expense of the amorphous phase.
Fundamental Insight into the Methodology of Hydrogen Water in Biological Studies
Authors: Li Qiang , Asada Ryoko , Tanaka Yoshiharu , Miwa Nobuhiko
Published: March 2017

In this short review, we have summarized our recent findings about hydrogen water, focusing on the methods for generating hydrogen water, in vivo and in vitro safety tests, and the antioxidant effect and anticancer effect of hydrogen water. Our findings indicate that a
portable, inexpensive apparatus for generating hydrogen water in the laboratory is necessary and useful in the field of hydrogen medicine.
Radial Heterojunction Solar Cell Consisting of n-Type Rutile Nanowire Arrays Infiltrated by p-Type CdTe
Authors: Hosseini Arezoo , Kar Piyush , Hsieh Ling-Hsuan , Wiltshire Benjamin D , Mohammadpour Arash , Farsinezhad Samira , Benlamri Mourad , Zhang Yun , Ercelebi C , Shankar Karthik
Published: March 2017

We report a p–n heterojunction solid-state solar cell comprised of p-type CdTe that was electrochemically deposited onto hydrothermally synthesized vertically oriented arrays of n-type single crystal rutile TiO2 nanowire arrays (RNWAs). The nanowires were
grown on fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO)-coated transparent conductive glass substrates by hydrothermal synthesis. Morphological studies revealed the TiO2 nanowires to be completely infiltrated by the CdTe. The solid-state solar cell exhibited an open circuit voltage of 0.6 V, a
short-circuit current density of 3.57 mA cm−2, a fill factor of 44% and a power conversion efficiency of 0.96%.
Controlled Fabrication of Silicon Nanostructures by the Nanosphere Lithography: Application for Low Reflection Over Wide Spectrum
Authors: Zhang Dong , Qin Xiaomei , Chen Jinxin , Shi Wangzhou
Published: March 2017

Nanostructures have been widely employed to reduce optical refkection for various optoelectronic devices. In this work, the aligned nanostructure arrays of with desirable diameter and density were obtained. We demonstrated the potential applications of nanosphere lithography in fabrication
of Si nanoholes (SiNHs) and Si nanowires (SiNWs) with excellent broadband light antirefkectance properties. Both nanostructures drastically suppress the refkection across the whole measured spectrum with wavelength above Si band gap (1.12 eV) as compared to that of planar Si wafer. The refkectance
intensity of SiNHs and SiNWs is less than 6% over broad range of 400 to 1000 nm. The nanosphere lithography technique is expected to have potential applications in fabrication of nanostructures with various properties.
Micropetrography of Hydrothermal Sediment and Synergy of Microorganisms in the Geological Environment
Authors: Meng Fanli , Wang Xiaoqi , Chen Wei , Li Shizhen , Sun Pingchang , Wan Qi
Published: March 2017

In the Jurihe area of Inner Mongolia, lamellar hydrothermal sediment of Permian was recognized. These rocks were inter-bedded with volcanic rocks, altered by hot water (hydrothermal fkuid) during the synsedimentary and quasi-synsedimentary stage. The lithogeochemistry of the rock components
differ from typical sedimentary rocks. The particles and mineralogical components cannot be identified by microscope. By scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) observation and the rock mineral micro-district analysis (QEMSCAN), we found the mineralogical components of rocks are mainly illite
and quartz, plagioclase and alkali feldspar, biotite, montmorillonite, chlorite, glauconite, apatite, hornblende, kaolinite and pyrite, zoisite, and there is a small amount of dolomite, calcite, rutile, gypsum/anhydrite, diopside, zircon, sphene, pyrophyllite, muscovite, epidote, siderite,
ilmenite, sphalerite, paragonite, etc. Amongst these, biotite, epidote, zoisite are hydrothermalized alteration minerals. Total organic carbon (TOC) within sedimentary rocks is 0.41~0.27%. Crystalline minerals are generally of micro and nano-size. Amorphous minerals account for a large portion.
Fineness of particles in the rock results from heat inhibiting crystallization,?regulation of organic molecules and macromolecular (Microbe-mediated mineralization). Oriented large granules are silicified organic matter from a hydrothermal source. Another form of organic matter taking shapes
of clouds or clumps, distributed in layers, and rich in heavy elements, contains filamentous carbon-containing material. It is associated with microbiological activity. If, as postulated above, there are two types of organic matter, the theory of petroleum formation can be enriched to a certain
extent.
Magnetic Properties of Co/CoO Bilayer Thin Films on Substrates with Periodically Nanostructured Roughness
Authors: Choi H. I , Huang M , Liu X , Moeendarbari S , Liu J. Ping , Hao Y
Published: March 2017

Co/CoO bilayer thin films were sputter deposited on a substrate with periodically close-packed truncated 500 nm void arrays. After field cooling from room temperature to 10 K, the hysteresis loops measured at 10 K show distinguished two asymmetries: the unidirectional anisotropy resulted
from exchange bias (EB) effect and a step in the second quadrant. This step is believed to be caused by unbiased free magnetic moment. The hysteresis loop representing magnetization change leading to the step show hard-axis behavior, which strongly suggests that the unbiased free moments come
from the magnetization with perpendicular anisotropy.
Effects of Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition Radio Frequency on the Properties of SiNx:H Films
Authors: Lee Kyung Dong , Ji Kwang-Sun , Bae Soohyun , Kim Seongtak , Kim Hyunho , Kim Jae Eun , Nam Yoon Chung , Choi Sungjin , Jeong Myeong Sang , Kang Min Gu , Song Hee-Eun , Kang Yoonmook , Lee Hae-Seok , Kim Donghwan
Published: March 2017

Hydrogenated silicon nitride (SiNx:H) films were fabricated using plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition at high (13.56 MHz), low (400 kHz), and dual (13.56 MHz + 400 kHz) radio frequencies. The antireflection and passivation qualities of each film were investigated
before their application as the front surface layer of crystalline silicon solar cells. The use of a high radio frequency was observed to have a positive effect on the cell performance, which increased by 0.4% in comparison with the minimum value obtained for a 156 mm × 156 mm cell.
Characterization of RF Sputtered-ZnS Thin Film Grown at Various Annealing Temperatures
Authors: Hwang Donghyun , Son Chang-Sik
Published: March 2017

ZnS thin films were deposited onto glass substrates by radio (RF) magnetron sputtering at room temperature. The films were grown at various annealing temperatures in vacuum at the range of 100–350 °C for 60 min. The effects of annealing temperatures on the structural and optical
properties of the annealed samples were investigated with X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and UV-visible transmission spectra. XRD patterns of ZnS thin films annealed in vacuum show a single peak at 2 = 28.91° and a preferred
orientation along the (111) reflection plane, indicating a zinc blende structure. The intensity of the diffraction peaks is increased with annealing temperatures. FESEM images reveal that the particle size is enhanced from 22.6 nm (at 100 °C) to 48.7 nm (at 350 °C) with increase in
the annealing temperatures. The optical band gap of the films shifts to a higher energy and the calculated value shows an increment from 3.27 to 3.51 eV as the growth temperature increases. The structural and optical properties of ZnS thin films are significantly affected by their annealing
temperatures.
Mixed Dimensionality with a TiO2 Nanostructure and Carbon Nanotubes for the Photoelectrode in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Hwang Tae-Hwan , Kim Wan-Tae , Choi Won-Youl
Published: March 2017

In dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs), TiO2 nanoparticles (TNPs) were conventionally used as a photoelectrode. The photoelectrode has shown electron scattering problem. TiO2 nanofibers (TNFs) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs), which have one dimensional structure, high
surface area, good electrical, and catalytic properties, is expected to be able to greatly improve the performances of DSCs. To decrease the photoelectron scattering and electron–hole pair recombination in the TNP photoelectrode, electrospun TNFs and multi-wall CNT were added in TNP
paste. The diameters of TNFs and multi-wall CNTs were ~400 nm and ~20 nm, respectively. The short circuit current and power conversion efficiency were increased by adding TNFs and decreased by adding CNTs. In DSCs with 15 wt% TNF, best values of 12.92 mA/cm2 and 4.79% were observed
and electron life time was 0.09 sec.