bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alkyne-Functionalized Cationic Polysiloxane Polymers Conjugated with Targeting Molecules by Click Reactions for DNA Delivery
Authors: Kihara Yoshihiko , Maeda Riho , Imaizumi Azusa , Ichikawa Tsukasa , Nemoto Nobukatsu , Ishihara Tsutomu , Hirano Nobutaka , Haruki Mitsuru
Published: March 2017

Cell-specific gene delivery through conjugating targeting molecules to gene carriers is a promising strategy for gene therapy. Click chemistry is a convenient tool for such conjugations. We have developed siloxane-based amphiphilic polymers with alkyne-functionalized and quaternized
imidazolium salts (PIm) for forming nanoemulsions capable of conjugating azide-functionalized targeting molecules by click chemistry. Being positively charged, these polymers were expected to be applicable to targeted gene delivery. In this study, PIm was conjugated with lactose, which is
recognized by asialoglycoprotein receptors (ASGP-Rs) on hepatocytes, using click chemistry and was examined for DNA binding, cytotoxicity, and in vitro transfection in HepG2 and NIH3T3 cells. The agarose gel retardation assay using a 5.3-kbp plasmid DNA (pDNA) confirmed complex formation
between the lactose-conjugated polymers and DNA at a nitrogen/phosphorous (N/P) ratio of 8. The polymers exhibited no significant hemolytic activity up to 50 μg/mL. The polymer-pDNA complexes have low cytotoxicity, which maintained a cell survival rate greater than 70% at
N/P ratios of up to 12 under transfection conditions. The luciferase assay revealed that PIm with a low level of lactose conjugation showed a 29-fold higher transfection efficiency than unmodified PIm at an N/P ratio of 12 in HepG2 cells, but not in NIH3T3 cells that do not express
ASGP-Rs. These results demonstrate that the lactose conjugation confers significantly enhanced gene transfer capability for HepG2 cells to PIm most likely due to binding of the polymer to ASGP-Rs on HepG2 cells. Therefore, PIm could be a promising gene delivery vehicle clickable for conjugating
cell-specific targeting molecules.
Transparent Strain Sensors Through Randomly Self-Assembly of Single Walled Carbon Nanotubes at the Air/Water Interface
Authors: Zhang Yongquan , Yang Lili , Ge Yong
Published: March 2017

Transparent, stretchable strain sensors have numerous applications in structural health monitoring, smart clothing, human motion detection etc. In this research, we reported a versatile, simple method for transparent, stretchable strain sensors based on sandwich structure of single-walled
carbon nanotube (SWCNT) network and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrate. The SWCNT network showed isotropy due to the surfactant driven random self-assembly at air/water interface. The SWCNT film of 2 layers presents high transparency (>90%) and great conductivity (12.1 kΩ/cm2)
without strain. During first 50 cycles of stretching/releasing, the resistance increased due to the irrecoverable loss of junctions between nanotubes. After 50th cycle, the conductivity of SWCNT thin film remains stable and shows good linearity due to the strong inter-bundle junctions.
The Morphology of TiO2 Nanotube Arrays Grown from Atomically Peened and Non-Atomically Peened Ti Films
Authors: Farsinezhad Samira , Mohammadpour Arash , Benlamri Mourad , Dalrymple Ashley N , Shankar Karthik
Published: March 2017

The growth of TiO2 nanotube arrays (TNTAs) on non-native substrates is essential for exploiting the full potential of this nanoarchitecture in applications such as gas sensing, biosensing, antifouling coatings, low-cost solar cells, drug-eluting bimedical implants and stem-cell
differentiators. The direct formation of anodic TNTAs on non-native substrates requires the vacuum deposition of a thin film of titanium on the substrate followed by subsequent electrochemical anodization of the film. In this report, we studied the effect of atomic peening on the formation
of Ti thin films on technologically important non-native substrates. We compared the structure and morphology of evaporated and sputtered Ti films, and correlated them to the morphology of the vertically oriented TiO2 nanostructures that resulted subsequent to anodization of those
films. We calculated a minimum value of 1.33 eV/atom for the energy of refkected neutral Ar species arriving at the substrate when a chamber pressure of 1 mTorr is used during the sputter deposition of Ti. Previous approaches relied on substrate heating to elevated temperatures during Ti thin
film deposition or ion-beam assisted Ti thin film deposition as a prerequisite to form TiO2 nanotube arrays (TNTAs). We demonstrated TNTAs on a variety of substrates at room temperature using both evaporated and sputtered Ti films without recourse to ion-beam sources. Evaporated
Ti films were found to possess small grain size and high local surface roughness, which resulted in nanotubes with extremely rough sidewalls. Ti thin films formed by Ar+ ion sputtering at commonly used chamber pressures of 7–20 mTorr at substrate temperatures ranging from
room-temperature to 250 °C possessed a highly rough surface and three-dimensional grains, which precluded the formation of ordered nanotubes upon anodization due to highly non-uniform pore nucleation processes. In contrast, Ti thin films sputtered at low chamber pressures of 0.8–2
mTorr had a low surface roughness due to the atomic peening process. Such films, even when deposited at room temperature, resulted in ordered nanotube arrays upon anodization.
Growth of Zinc Oxide Nanorod and Nanoflower Structures by Facile Treatment of Zinc Thin Films in Boiling De-Ionized Water
Authors: Khedir Khedir R , Saifaldeen Zubayda S , Demirkan Taha , Abdulrahman Rosure B , Karabacak Tansel
Published: March 2017

In this work, zinc oxide nanostructured films were developed by a facile treatment of the sputter deposited zinc thin films in boiling de-ionized water. Arrays of zinc oxide nanostructures with rod and flower-like shapes were obtained by changing the boiling water treatment time and
manipulating the thickness of zinc film. Results of the scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction, ultraviolet-visible-near infrared spectroscopy, and photoluminescence techniques indicate that the obtained nanostructures are crystallized stoichiometric
zinc oxide. Zinc oxide nanorods and nanoflowers start to form on the surface and progress across the zinc film’s thickness as a function of treatment time in boiling de-ionized water, which allow a controllable method of fabricating semiconducting/metal multilayer coatings. The obtained
nanostructured films showed different optical properties depending on starting zinc film’s thickness and boiling water treatment time. In addition, photoluminescence analysis showed that the nanostructured films possess a major energy band gap of 3.28 eV along with two other secondary
defects-related energy band gaps of 2.27 and 1.67 eV.
In Vitro Biocompatibility and Macrophage Uptake Assays of Poly(Urea-Urethane) Nanoparticles Obtained by Miniemulsion Polymerization
Authors: Valério Alexsandra , Feuser Paulo Emilio , Bubniak Lorena Dos Santos , Santos-Silva Maria Claudia Dos , Araújo Pedro Henrique Hermes de , Sayer Claudia
Published: March 2017

In this work In Vitro cytotoxicity of poly(urea-urethane) nanoparticles obtained by miniemulsion polymerization against murine fibroblast (L929), normal human fibroblast (NIH3T3) and MRC-5 cell line derived from normal lung tissue, as well as, hemocompatibility, and In Vitro
macrophage uptake were evaluated. From the results obtained in this work, poly(urea-urethane) nanoparticles showed spherical morphology, negative zeta potential and mean diameter of 85 ± 4 nm. In Vitro cytotoxicity against fibroblast cell lines L929, NIH-3T3, and MCR-5 showed
no reduction of cell viability, which is a critical parameter for the drug carrier biocompatibility. In addition, in In Vitro macrophage uptake studies, poly(urea-urethane) nanoparticles showed a high phagocytic uptake, 72%. Hemolysis assays showed high human blood biocompatibility
and the results indicate that poly(urea-urethane) nanoparticles obtained in this work have excellent properties without secondary effect, with potential application as carrier for drug delivery in the treatment of diseases in which macrophages act as host cells.
Electrodeposited Palladium Nanotubes on Nanoclusters Mosaic Basement for Electrooxidation of Hydrazine
Authors: Begum Halima , Ahmed Mohammad Shamsuddin , Jeon Seungwon
Published: March 2017

A series of electrochemically deposited palladium nanotubes (e-PdNTs) on nanoclusters (e-PdNCs) mosaic basement have been prepared with variation of cycle number and scan rate through a facile electrochemical deposition method using cyclic voltammetry (CV) technique in
20 mM HCl solution and have been used as an anode electrocatalyst for hydrazine (N2H4 oxidation reaction. The morphology and structure of the self-formed e-PdNTs catalysts have characterized by scanning electron microscopy. As observed, the size and amount of e-PdNTs
increased with the increasing of cycle number and decreased with respect to the increasing of scan rate. The overall experimental parameters have determined that the superior and direct electrocatalytic N2H4 oxidation obtained with lowering NH3 formation upon
6 cycles deposited e-PdNTs at 50 mV s−1 scan rate in 0.1 M KOH solution than that of other prepared e-PdNTs and Pd/C in respect to the onset potential, current intensity and durability. The lower detection limit (3.6 μM) and the linear range of N2H4
(up to 14 mM) have also been determined on e-PdNTs via amperometry for further sensor application.
Enhanced Cellular Uptake and Cytotoxicity of Doxorubicin by Self-Assembled Lactobionate-Phytosterol-Alginate Nanoparticles
Authors: Wang Xue , Huang Meiling , Li Liangping , Song Mingming , Gong Renmin
Published: March 2017

Amphiphilic self-assembled phytosterol-alginate nanoparticles (PA NPs) were prepared by hydrophobic modification of alginate with phytosterols. Lactobionate, a tumor-cell-specific ligand, was grafted to PA NPs for targeting the liver cancer cells (HepG2 cells) that overexpress asialoglycoprotein
receptor (ASGP-R). The physicochemical properties of lactobionate-phytosterol-alginate (LPA) NPs were characterized. Doxorubicin (DOX), a broad spectrum anticancer agent, was encapsulated into prepared NPs by dialysis method. The recognition of prepared LPA NPs to HepG2 cells was ascertained
by cytotoxicity and lactobionate competition assays. Because of ASGP-R-mediated endocytosis process, the DOX/LPA NPs had lower IC50 value to HepG2 cells than pure DOX and DOX/PA. The cytotoxicity of DOX/LPA NPs to HepG2 cells could be competitively inhibited by free lactobionate.
The cellular uptake manner of pure DOX and DOX/LPA NPs was recognized by confocal laser scanning microscopy image and the quicker intracellular uptake of drug for DOX/LPA NPs over pure DOX was confirmed. The LPA NPs had the latent force as a promising drug carrier to target drugs to cancer
cells overexpressing ASGP-R and avoid killing the cells of normal tissues.
Influence of Polypropylene Reaction Time on the Clay Exfoliation Process by In Situ Polymerization
Authors: Marques Maria De Fatima V , Fernandes Rodrigo Moreira
Published: March 2017

In this work, polypropylene/clay nanocomposites were synthesized by In Situ polymerization employing an isospecific metallocene catalyst supported on montmorillonite clay, prepared under different conditions. The study aimed to evaluate the influence of the treatment process
of catalyst supports, using different aluminum compounds, on their activity and polymer properties. They were evaluated in propylene polymerization at 60 °C under different reaction conditions, using toluene or hexane as reaction medium, and methylaluminoxane or its mixture with triisobutylaluminium
as cocatalysts. Afterwards, another clay supported catalyst was prepared at a lower concentration of metallocene in order to produce a PP/clay nanocomposite with high concentration of clay. This is the first report showing the influence of the polymerization time, which was evaluated by taking
aliquots during the reaction to determine its influence on the polymer properties during the exfoliation process. PP/clay-based nanocomposites were obtained with high concentration of exfoliated clay, showing mechanical and thermal properties superior to those of the homogeneous polypropylene.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation of Amylose-Linoleic Acid Complex Behavior in Water
Authors: Feng Tao , Wang Ke , Zhuang Haining , Bhopatkar Deepak , Carignano Marcelo A , Park Sung Hyun , Bing Fangling
Published: March 2017

In this paper, the objective was to employ the probability of amylose inclusion complex formation with linoleic acid and estimate the thermodynamic compatibility of complex of amylose with linoleic acid at water. We used Gromacs to make molecular dynamics simulation of amylose-linoleic
acid complex behavior in water. Firstly, the amylose alone in water has been simulated by Gromacs, it was found that amylose alone in 373 K had a more extensive chain than that in 300 K, and the former has a larger radius of gyration than the latter, which means the former hydrated more adequately
than the latter. Then, the amylose and linoleic acid had been simulated by Gromacs at 300 K and 373 K respectively, after 1 ns simulation, it can be clearly seen that linoleic acid can be included into amylose helical cavity at 373 K but can’t be included at 300 K, through configuration
after 1 ns (1 ns = 10−9 s) with or without solvent, root-mean-square deviation, solvent accessible surface area, molecules separation distance, trajectories of molecules movement, the values of those complex have been compared, it was concluded that the complexation of amylose
and linoleic acid was much more thermodynamically favored at 373 K than at 300 K. These results suggested that the founded method could help us to prove its probability of amylose inclusion complex formation with small ligands and also estimate the thermodynamic compatibility of complex of
amylose with different small ligands complexes at water.
Development and In Vitro Assessment of Nanoemulsion for Delivery of Ketoconazole Against Candida albicans
Authors: Campos V. E. B. De , Cerqueira-Coutinho C. S , Capella F. N. C , Soares B. G , Holandino C , Mansur C. R. E
Published: March 2017

Nanoemulsions (NEs) applied as drug delivery systems are particularly convenient to increase solubility and the release of the drug with poor water solubility in water. The aim of this study was to prepare NEs containing Ketoconazole (KTZ), a poorly water-soluble drug, characterize
them and evaluate their antifungal activity against Candida albicans. The solubility of KTZ was studied in different essential oils. Clove and sweet fennel essential oils were chosen as the oily phase and Pluronic F127® and Cremophor RH40® as the non-ionic
surfactants to take part in the water phase. Formulations were prepared by a high-energy emulsification method and they were evaluated in terms of physical appearance, mean droplet size and polydispersity index. The NEs were successfully obtained and the droplets mean size was less than 100
nm. To verify efficacy of the NEs, the viability and the growth of C. albicans were measured by the propidium iodide influx analysis and by counting colony-forming units (CFU/mL). The results showed that the loss of the fungal membrane integrity and growth decrease were obtained
after the treatment with the KTZ NEs containing clove oil (NEs-CL-KTZ) and with the free KTZ. However, the number of non-viable cells were significantly (p < 0.01) higher on the cells treated with NEs-CL-KTZ compared to the free KTZ. The In Vitro drug release profile demonstrated
that NEs-CL-KTZ formulation could increase more than nine times the release of KTZ when compared to KTZ cream. To conclude, NEs-CL-KTZ tested in the present study has demonstrated the most efficient formulation for the treatment of C. albicans infections.
Molecular Dynamics of H2 Storage in Carbon Nanotubes Under External Electric Field Effects: A Sensor Proposal
Authors: Aires J. C. N , Neto A. F. G , Maneschy C. E , Huda M. N , Anjos A. R , Riul A , Souza J. F , Neto A. M. J. C
Published: March 2017

We present an analysis on molecular dynamics between H2 molecule interacting with one carbon nanotube section at low initial-temperature of simulation, corresponding to 10−3 K, and under constant electric field effects, in order to verify the performance
of the carbon nanotube like a H2 sensor, and consequently, indicating its use as an effective internal coating in storage tanks of hydrogen gas. During simulations, the H2 was relaxed for 40 ps inside and outside of carbon nano-tube, describing each possible arrangement
for the capture of H2, and electric field was applied over the system, longitudinally to the carbon nanotube length, promoting the rise of an evanescent field, able to trap H2, which orbited the carbon nanotube. Simulations for electric fields intensities in a range of
10−8 au up to 10−6 au were performed, and mean orbit radius are estimated, as well as, some physical quantities of the system. The quantities calculated were: kinetic energy, potential energy, total energy and temperature in situ, among molar entropy
variation. Our results indicates that a combination of electric field and van der Walls interactions derivatives of carbon nanotube is enough to create an evanescent field with attractive potential, showing it system as a good H2 sensor.
Maximization of Carbon Nanohorns Production via the Arc Discharge Method for Hydrotreating Application
Authors: Aryee Emma , Dalai Ajay K , Adjaye John
Published: March 2017

The submerged arc in liquid nitrogen method was used to produce carbon nanohorns (CNH) for hydrotreating application. In this paper the effects of current, time and system design modification were investigated to maximize CNH production. A current setting of 90 A was found to be the
best condition for CNH production. Additionally, CNH production was impacted by processing time and design setup used in synthesizing the samples. For each batch, 0.12 g of CNH was obtained for 30 mins of processing time. The properties of CNH were evaluated using Brunauer–Emmett–Teller
(BET) method, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), Raman Spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD). BET results revealed mesoporous pore diameters for all pristine CNH samples under the different current (50–100 A) settings. Dahlia-like and budlike
structures with aggregate diameters ranging from ~50–110 nm were observed in the TEM images. Although current and processing times were found to be two crucial parameters affecting the yield of CNH production, the entire equipment design was a major key factor in improving the yield
by being capable of retaining more CNH particles during production.
Size Control of Cobalt Nanoparticles Through Synthesis Parameter Variation
Authors: Silva Lidiane Sabino da , Almeida Fernanda Naiara Campos de , Moretti Artur Lemes , Cher Gabriela Gonzaga , Arroyo Pedro Augusto
Published: March 2017

In the present work, cobalt nanoparticles were synthesised in the range of 4 to 72 nm through the chemical reduction method, in which cobalt nitrate, oleic acid and sodium borohydride were used as the precursor, stabiliser and reducing agent, respectively. The syntheses were carried
out by varying the synthesis parameters, such as the amount of reducing agent, amount of stabiliser and turbulence level of the reaction medium, with the aim of evaluating their influence on the control of cobalt nanoparticle size distribution. The nanoparticles size decrease with high concentrations
of reducing agent and stabiliser, due to an increase in the reaction rate and viscosity of the medium, respectively. It was also verified that the high level of turbulence used during the synthesis could provide anomalous diffusion of cobalt nanoparticles in the reaction medium. Under this
condition, the growth kinetics may vary significantly with regards to two distinct reaction paths, causing opposite growth behaviour in relation to the synthesis occurring in the normal distribution of the nanoparticles.
Instantaneous Synthesis of Faceted Iron Oxide Nanostructures Using Microwave Solvothermal Assisted Combustion Technique
Authors: Shinde Manish , Qureshi Nilam , Rane Sunit , Kim Jang Ah , Kim Taesung , Amalnerkar Dinesh
Published: March 2017

Microwaves are routinely used in the contemporary chemical synthesis of nanomaterials to increase the reaction kinetics and reduce the reaction time. In the present investigation, microwaves have been used in two step solvothermal and combustion method for the synthesis of iron oxide
(α-Fe2O3) nanostructures. The structural examination reveals formation of hematite phase of iron oxide. Morphological analysis shows formation of sheet and rod-like morphologies depending on reaction conditions. Owing to such morphologies enabling relatively
large surface to volume ratio, these nanostructures can find useful applications in supercapacitors, photocatalysis and sensors.
Influence of Technological Conditions on Microstructure, Surface Topography and Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution of Ni–Mo Alloy Films
Authors: Du Jingjing , Xie Shaowen , Li Na , Xu Lijian
Published: March 2017

Ni–Mo alloy films were prepared by electrodeposition technique in sulfate-chloride bath. The influence of main technical parameters, such as bath temperature, pH and current density on microstructure and surface morphology of Ni–Mo alloy films were characterized by X-ray
diffractometer (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The electrochemical properties for the electrodepositing Ni–Mo alloy films for hydrogen evolution were investigated by electrochemical methods, using cathode polarization curves. Results showed that the excellent electrochemical
properties for the Ni–Mo alloy films were obtained when the current density, bath temperature and pH were 8 A/dm2, 30 °C and 5.0, respectively.
Mechanical and Tribological Properties of CrWN Nanostructured Hard Films
Authors: Hsieh T. H , Zhu Y. J , Yu Z. H , Tang C. Y , Hsu C. H , Hsu C. Y
Published: March 2017

This work determines optimal settings for the deposition parameters of CrWN hardened, nanocomposite films grown on tungsten carbide tools and glass substrates with direct current (DC) reactive magnetron co-sputtering. Using metallic Cr and W targets, argon was the plasma gas and nitrogen
was the reactive gas. An orthogonal array, the signal-to-noise ratio and analysis of variance are together used to analyze the effect of the deposition parameters. The Taguchi method was used to design a robust experiment. Then deposition parameters of the CrWN hard films, including Cr DC
power (Watts), W DC power (Watts), N2/(Ar+N2) flow-rate ratios (%) and deposition time (min) were optimized with reference to structure of the films, dry turning tests of AISI 316 stainless steel (50 mm diameter) and wear tests of CrWN films. This study uses a grey-based
Taguchi method to determine the parameters of the coating process for CrWN hard films by considering multiple performance characteristics. In the confirmation runs, according to grey relational analysis, improvements were noted of 6.17% in the surface roughness, 26.27% in the flank wear, and
6% in the coefficient of friction. The wear resistance of CrWN films can be evaluated by considering the other mechanical properties, including elastic recovery, hardness and Young’s modulus, which are obtained from the nanoindentation testing.
Innovation Trends and Development Strategies in the Significant Scientific Instrument—A Case of Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Zhijuan , Yang Chaofeng , Xu Feng , Du Hongliang , Feng Ying , Ma Yongtao
Published: March 2017

Understanding innovation trends and strategies of significant scientific instrument is an important issue not only for researchers in technology development, but also for company directors for their successful management of product competitiveness. Therefore, we took mass spectrometry
as case study. Multiple patent quantitative indexes and several quality indicators were introduced. The methods of patent bibliometrics, technology field analysis, technology decomposition, scenarios of growth were chose to investigate the trends for this technology. Patent layout was expressed
from micro (inventors), meso (organizations), macro (countries)-three levels. The results show that key points for the research of mass spectrometry are focused on ionization and separation of mass analyzer. The application of mass spectrometry was the major area. US owned the most patents
in raising the efficiency and expanding application for mass spectrometry, while Japan owned the most patents in improving reliability and convenient usage. The forecasting showed that this technology has entered fast growth stage, a lot of accumulating for mass spectrometry has been achieved,
it would be another 20 years before the limit could be reached for mass spectrometry technology. Total patent collaborative ratio was 74.84%: inventors kept a close cooperation in the field of mass spectrometry and inventor’s cooperation is a common form for the research and development
of mass spectrometry worldwide. All the organizations from US had higher external collaborative ratios, but Japan pay less attention on the external cooperation. US, Japan, and developed European countries were the focused technological market.
Characterization of Liposome Membrane Containing Chlorophyll a Molecules and Its Photosensitized Functions
Authors: Taguchi Shogo , Suga Keishi , Hayashi Keita , Yoshimoto Makoto , Okamoto Yukihiro , Nakamura Hidemi , Umakoshi Hiroshi
Published: March 2017

Liposomes (phospholipid vesicles) including Chlorophyll a (Chla have practically been utilized as a simplified photochemical energy conversion system. However, poor knowledge about the detailed liposomal membrane properties has hampered the progress in this field. In this paper, we
therefore clarified the liposomal membrane properties based on the analyses of the membrane fluidity, the Chla absorption bands, and the Chla polarization. Moreover, we examined the influence of the membrane properties on the photoreduction with methylviologen. Consequently, it was revealed
that the kinetic constant value of the reduced species formation decreased with the increase in temperature over the phase transition temperature of the membrane, which means that the membrane properties largely influence the photochemical reaction. Based on our results, we conclude that the
behaviors and the orientations of Chla molecules on the liposomal membrane are significantly important in the photochemical energy conversion system.
Redox-Sensitive Core Cross-Linked Polyethylene Glycol-Polypeptide Hybrid Micelles for Anticancer Drug Delivery
Authors: Li Lidong , Shang Le , Chen Kanglong , Wang Qiuyue , Luo Jianbin , Zhou Qinghan , Lin Juan
Published: March 2017

A novel redox-sensitvie core cross-linked micelles based on disulfide-linked PEG-polypeptide hybrid polymer were prepared and demonstrated for anticancer drug delivery, where N,N-bis(acrylate) cystamine (BAC) served as cross-linker, allyl-terminated poly(γ-benzyl-L-glutamate)
(PBLG) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) methyl ether methacrylate acted as comonomers. The molecular structure and characteristics of the cross-linked micelle and the precursor were confirmed by 1H NMR and FT-IR. The cross-linked micelles could be easily degraded into individual linear short
chains (Mn = 1800) in the presence of 20 mM glutathione (GSH) by the cleavage of the disulfide linkages from the cross-linker BAC. Doxorubicin (DOX) was selected as a model anticancer drug and encapsulated into the micelles with a decent drug loading content of 21.6 wt%.
Compared to the burst release of free DOX in first 6 hours, the in vitro release studies revealed that the micelles exhibited a sustained and high cumulative drug release in GSH (up to 86%) within 24 h, rather than the relatively low release rate of 62% in PBS (pH 7.4). Cell cytoxicity
experiments showed that the obtained micelles exhibited nontoxic, and the drug-loaded micelles exhibited high anti-cancer efficacy. All the results showed that the designed cross-linked PEG-polypeptide hybrid micelles may be a promising vehicle for anticancer drug delivery with stimuli-triggered
drug release behavior in reducing environment.
Comparison of the Antibacterial Efficacy of Silver Nanoparticles with Chlorhexidine Against Enterococcus faecalis Biofilm—An In Vitro Study
Authors: Nagendrababu Venkateshbabu , Meiyazhagan Gowri , Beaula Winfred Sofi , Kalaiselvam Rajeswari , Subramanian Balakumar , Chandrasekar Ashokraja , Lakshmikanthanbharathi Lakshminarayanan , Deivanayagam Kandaswamy , Venkatraman Ganesh
Published: March 2017

Silver Nanoparticles (AgNps) have been widely used in the field of Medicine. This In Vitro study aimed to test (1) the bacterial viability after treating with AgNps and Chlorhexidine (CHX) against E. faecalis biofilm and (2) the anti-bacterial mechanism of action of AgNps.
Sixty single rooted mandibular premolars were selected. The cylindrical midroot sections were enlarged with Gates Gliden dril no: 3. Dentin blocks were contaminated with E. faecalis (ATCC 29212). The samples were divided into three groups based on the medicament that was packed. Group
1: Saline (Control), Group II—2% CHX and Group III-AgNps. At the end of Days 1 and 3, assessment of live and dead cells were carried out by using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). The mechanism of antibacterial action was studied by membrane damage of E. faecalis, using
Scanning Electron microscopy. It was also confirmed by membrane permeabilization assay. AgNps showed higher percentage of dead cells compared to CHX. There was no statistically significant difference between placing AgNps as a medicament for Day 1 and Day 3. The membrane damage of E. faecalis
was proved after treating with AgNps.The current study proved the antibacterial efficacy of AgNps in the reduction of the E. faecalis biofilm.
In-Situ Metallization of Thermally-Treated Tobacco Mosaic Virus Using Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Rodríguez-Galván Andrés , Martínez-Lorán Erick , Naveja J. Jesús , Ornelas-Soto Nancy , A. Basiuk Vladimir , Contreras-Torres Flavio F
Published: March 2017

Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) is used as an organic biotemplate to prepare hybrid materials with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). In this study, the native rod-like TMV structure was transformed into spherical particles using a thermal treatment; subsequently, the external surface of the
thermally-treated TMV (TT-TMV) were In-Situ covered with AgNPs through cycles of sequential reduction using sodium borohydride. The as-grown nanoparticles show a bimodal distribution on the surface of the TT-TMVs after the fifth nucleation cycle. Results of characterization of the metallized
TT-TMV by dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy accordingly show the effect of cycling on the morphology of the AgNPs/TT-TMV hybrids.
Surface Modification of LiCoO2 by NASICON-Type Ceramic Materials for Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Tron Artur , Yoon Taeho , Park Yeong Don , Oh Seung M , Mun Junyoung
Published: March 2017

Three types of NASICON-type ceramic materials which are Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3, Li1.3Sc0.15Y0.15 Ti1.7(PO4)3 and Li1.3Al0.3Zr1.7(PO4)3
are prepared by a solid-state reaction for surface modification of LiCoO2 by mechano-chemical fusion coating. Ionic conductivity of the prepared ceramic electrolytes are evaluated as temperature changes, Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3,
Li1.3Sc0.15Y0.15Ti1.7(PO4)3 and Li1.3Al0.3Zr1.7(PO4)3 exhibit the high ionic conductivity of 6.49×10−4 S cm−1, 5.61×10−4 S cm−1 and 4.85
× 10−4 S cm−1, respectively, at room temperature. Under the high cut-off potential for utilization large amount of lithium, the surface modification by ionic conducting coatings improves cycleability and rate capability of the lithium ion batteries.
As ionic conductivity of coating materials increases, the coated LiCoO2 exhibits the better electrochemical performances. With AC impedance analyses, it is elucidated that the NASICON surface-coatings greatly relieve the interfacial resistance between LiCoO2 electrode
and electrolyte.
Preparation and Physicochemical Characterization of Polyelectrolyte Complexes Incorporating Antitumor Peptide
Authors: Pippa Natassa , Mountrichas Gregory , Pispas Stergios , Demetzos Costas , Sivolapenko Gregory
Published: March 2017

In this work, tigapotide (PCK3145) was incorporated into novel block copolymer polyelectrolyte nanocarriers in order to maximize the advantages of the delivery process and possibly its biological properties. PCK3145 was incorporated into complexes with the block polyelectrolyte poly(vinyl
benzyl trimethylammonium chloride)-b-poly(oligo(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate) (PVBTMAC-POEGMA). Light scattering techniques (dynamic, static and electrophoretic) are used in order to examine the size, the size distribution, the morphology and the z-potential of the nanocarriers
incorporating PCK3145 in different aqueous media. The concentration of PVBTMAC-POEGMA is kept constant throughout the series of aqueous solutions of different ionic strength investigated. The values of the scattering intensity, I90, which is proportional to the mass of the
species in solution, increase gradually as a function of CPCK3145 providing proof of the occurring complexation. It was shown that the structure and solution behavior of the formed complexes depend on the ratio of the two components, as well as on the pH and the ionic strength of
the solution. The physicochemical characteristics of the complexes, as a function of PCK concentration, remained unaffected at higher ionic strength (0.154 M). This investigation provides interesting and useful new insights into the interaction mechanism between oppositely charged block polyelectrolytes
and therapeutic peptides.
Mechanical Stress Distribution and the Effects of Process Parameter Changes in Vertical NAND Flash Memory
Authors: Namkoong Yeon , Yang Hyung Jun , Song Yun Heub
Published: March 2017

We investigated the stress distribution and electrical characteristics according to changes in the process parameters in a vertical NAND (VNAND) flash cell with a poly-Si channel. We used technology computer-aided design to confirm that process parameters changes affect the stress distribution
in a VNAND flash cell and the stress in the poly-Si channel. Also, we found that, as the stress distributions changed, the electrical characteristics depended significantly on the annealing temperature, channel hole angle, and tungsten intrinsic stress in a VNAND flash cell. Thus, the industry
needs to develop and apply better process parameters and acquire a better understanding of how the electrical characteristics of a VNAND flash cell depend on those parameters.
Synthesis of Mesoporous Cerium Oxide (CeO2) Nanoparticles and Effect of Cerium Precursors on Transamidation of Acetamide with N-Octylamine Under Solvent-Free Conditions
Authors: Kumar Ashish , Sharma Manu , Gautam Rajeev K , Agarwala Pooja , Basu Soumen
Published: March 2017

Mesoporous cerium oxide (CeO2) nanoparticles act as an effective heterogeneous catalyst for the transamidation reaction of amides with amines. The mesoporous CeO2 nanoparticles were prepared by hydrothermal method using different cerium precursor such as: cerium(III)
chloride heptahydrate [CeCl3 · 7H2O], cerium nitrate hexahydrate [Ce(NO3)3 · 6H2O], ceric ammonium nitrate [(NH4)2Ce(NO3)6], and cerium(III) acetate [Ce(C2H3O2)3
· 1.5H2O]. It shows highest catalytic activity for transamidation of acetamide with N-octylamine under solvent free conditions. This is the first example of a heterogeneous catalyst for transamidation using aliphatic amines as substrates. The X-ray diffraction, BET
surface area analysis, and FT-IR characterizations of CeO2 suggested its excellent catalytic activity for transamidation reaction.
Lipid Nanostructures Containing Atorvastatin Decrease Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammation in Macrophages
Authors: Moisei Magdalena , Craciunescu Oana , Moldovan Lucia , Roseanu Anca , Trif Mihaela
Published: March 2017

Atorvastatin, an inhibitor of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase, is known to exert lipid-lowering, but also anti-inflammatory effects in extra-arterial locations. In order to avoid its toxicity associated with long-term oral treatment, in this study we have proposed novel
lipid nanostructures containing atorvastatin to improve its efficiency and bioavailability after local application in periodontitis inflammation therapy. The physico-chemical characterization of the nanostructures was performed using dynamic light scattering technique and morphological observations
were made by light microscopy. The encapsulation efficiency was determined by high performance liquid chromatography analysis of loaded atorvastatin. In vitro cytotoxicity and anti-inflammatory activity were evaluated in human premonocytic THP-1 cell line and a model of lipopolysaccharide-induced
inflammation in macrophages, respectively. The results showed that the population of atorvastatin lipid nanostructures presented a mean diameter of 178 nm and a good homogeneity after sonication and extrusion treatments applying, as indicated by the low polydispersity index of 0.223. The efficiency
of atorvastatin encapsulation was high (87.3%) and the nanostructures cytotoxicity was reduced for lipid concentrations ranging from 50 μM to 500 μM. Experiments in THP-1 cells differentiated to macrophages demonstrated that atorvastatin liposomal formulation led to a higher
inhibition of lipopolysaccharide-induced proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin 6, tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin 8) release, compared to free drug. In conclusion, atorvastatin lipid nanostructures could be used to develop an efficient local treatment of periodontitis inflammation.
Removal Performance of Methyl Blue Onto Magnetic MgFe2O4 Nanoparticles Prepared via the Rapid Combustion Process
Authors: Liu Ruijiang , Lv Pingxue , Fu Hongxia , Lu Rongzhu , Wu Xiaoyang , Lu Yimin
Published: March 2017

A rapid combustion process for the preparation of magnetic MgFe2O4 nanoparticles was introduced; the structure and properties of the as-prepared product were investigated by XRD, SEM, TEM and VSM techniques. The experimental results revealed that the volume of
absolute alcohol and the calcination temperature were two key parameters for the preparation of MgFe2O4 nanoparticles. With the volume of absolute alcohol increasing from 10 mL to 25 mL, the particle size of MgFe2O4 nanoparticles decreased from 70
nm to 52 nm; while with the calcination temperature increasing from 400 °C to 800 °C, the particle size was increased from 52 nm to 123 nm. The magnetic MgFe2O4 nanoparticles calcined at 400 °C for 2 h were characterized with the average particle size of around
50 nm and the specific magnetization of 247.2 Am2/kg. The magnetic MgFe2O4 nanoparticles were employed to remove methyl blue (MB) from aqueous solution, the adsorption kinetics and adsorption isotherm of MB onto MgFe2O4 nanoparticles at
room temperature were investigated, and the regression equation was found in good agreement with the pseudo-second-order model in the initial MB concentrations of 100–400 mg/L; the adsorption equilibrium data of MB onto MgFe2O4 nanoparticles at room temperature
were analyzed with Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin models, and the adsorption isotherm was more effectively described by the Temkin model based on the value of the correlation coefficient (0.9981).
Synthesis of Light-Controlled Superparamagnetic Core–Shell Structured Nanocomposite for Drug Delivery
Authors: Chen Tieyu , Huang Tianming , Dai Henry
Published: March 2017

This paper reported a core–shell structured site-specific light-controlled magnetic nanocomposite for drug delivery. Its core was composed of superparamagnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles for magnetic guiding purposes. Its outer shell consisted of mesoporous silica
molecular sieve MCM-41 which offered highly ordered hexagonal tunnels for drug molecules. A ligand N1-(5H-cyclopenta [1,2- b:5,4-b′] dipyridin-5-ylidene) benzene-1,4-diamine (denoted as Dafo-Ph-NH2) was coupled to the MCM-41shell. The Dafo end can flip over under 510 nm light
therefore will act as a light stimulated acceptor. The final composite was analyzed by electron microscope images, XRD, IR spectra, thermogravimetry, MTT and N2 adsorption/desorption. Our Dafo-MCM-41@Fe3O4 composite shows light controlled release property for
vitamin B12 in vitro.
Activated Carbon Furnished Monodisperse Pt Nanocomposites as a Superior Adsorbent for Methylene Blue Removal from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Sert Hakan , Yildiz Yunus , Okyay Tugba Onal , Sen Betul , Gezer Bahdisen , Bozkurt Sait , Başskaya Gaye , Sen Fatih
Published: March 2017

Adresses herein, monodisperse Pt nanoadsorbents have been reproducibly prepared by microwave assisted method and consist of activated carbon and platinum called as Mw-Pt NPs@AC nanocomposites. Mw-Pt NPs@AC nanocomposites were found to be extraordinary adsorption capacity for methylene
blue (MB) removal from aqueous solutions. Their characterization was performed by the help of X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results revealed that the
Mw-Pt NPs@AC nanocomposites are highly efficient adsorbents for MB removal from aqueous solutions and provide remarkable adsorption capacity (195.69 mg/g). The MB adsorption equilibrium was attained in ~75 min. In addition, reusability tests represented that Mw-Pt NPs@AC nanocomposites are
quite promising for MB removal keeping 91.9% of its initial efficiency after 5 cycles of adsorption–desorption.
Size-Controlled Preparation of Gold Nanoclusters on Hydroxyapatite Through Trans-Deposition Method
Authors: Haesuwannakij Setsiri , Poonsawat Thinnaphat , Noikham Medena , Somsook Ekasith , Yakiyama Yumi , Dhital Raghu Nath , Sakurai Hidehiro
Published: March 2017

This paper describes a trans-deposition method for the size-controlled preparation of metal oxide-supported gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) varying from 1 to 8 nm in diameter. Colloidal AuNCs of various sizes were successfully deposited on hydroxyapatite (HAP), without undergoing a significant
change in size from the initial polymer-supported AuNCs. The resulting AuNCs deposited on HAP (Au:HAP) were characterized by transmission electron microscope, powder X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscope, inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy, and X-ray absorption
spectroscopy. The Au:HAP thus obtained catalyzed the aerobic oxidation of 1-indanol to give 1-indanone with excellent yield and recyclability.
Precipitation of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Under UV-Irradiation
Authors: Praus Petr , Svoboda Ladislav , Čížek Jakub , Słowik Grzegorz
Published: March 2017

In this work, the influence of UV irradiation (254 nm) on the precipitation of ZnO nanoparticles was studied. UV irradiation was found to induce photocorrosion of originating ZnO nanoparticles, which resulted in the formation of oxygen and zinc vacancies confirmed by photoluminescence
and positron annihilation spectroscopy. The oxygen vacancies were formed by the reactions of hydroxyl radicals with oxygen atoms of the ZnO lattice. Positron annihilation spectroscopy also revealed the presence of oxygen and zinc divacancies and the clusters of 5 zinc vacancies and 10 oxygen
vacancies, which enhanced the orange-red photoluminescence of ZnO nanoparticles. Using electron transmission microscopy and high resolution electron transmission microscopy a median of the ZnO nanoparticle sizes was estimated at about 17 nm while a median of the ZnO nanocrystal sizes was about
7 nm, respectively. No effects of the photocorrosion on the nanoparticle and nanocrystal sizes were observed. A new mechanism of the Zn(OH)2 formation based on the reactions of hydroxyl radicals with zinc precursors was suggested.
Dielectric Relaxation and Room Temperature Magnetoresistance Under Low Magnetic Field in Polypyrrole-BaTiO3 Hybrid Nanocomposites
Authors: Haldar Ipsita , Nayak Arabinda
Published: March 2017

BaTiO3 and polypyrrole (ppy)-BaTiO3 hybrid nanocomposites have been synthesized by chemical oxidative polymerization method. Microstructure and crystallinity of the hybrids are studied using field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), high resolution
transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique. As prepared BaTiO3 are rod-like, while PPY-BaTiO3 nanocomposites indicate the formation of bulging agglomerates of spherical particles with various sizes (40–50 nm). Dielectric constants
at room temperature of the composites have largely enhanced (up to 6000). The hybrid composite shows grain boundary relaxation in the frequency range (42 Hz-5 MHz). Three dimensional (3D) variable range hopping (VRH) with high localization of charge carriers (Mott temperature ≈ 8725658
K) is observed in the temperature dependent conductivity evaluation of composite system. Negative magnetorestance (MR ≈ 4.3%) has been measured at 1 T. The observed MR is explained with the help of forward interference model.
A Comparison of Photocatalytic Degradation of Different Environmental Pollutants by Ag–TiO2 Photocatalyst
Authors: Tian Hao , Xi Xinguo , Dong Pengyu , Cai Xing , Liu Yin
Published: March 2017

The silver modified TiO2 photocatalysts were prepared by a rapid sol–gel method and used for the photocatalytic oxidization of different pollutants. The photocatalytic activity of as-prepared samples was evaluated by photo-degradation of organic methylene blue (MB),
toluene, nitric oxide (NO) and phenol. The addition of Ag to TiO2 exhibits enhanced photocatalytic degradation of different pollutants due to the possibility of the prolonged lifetimes of photogenerated electron–hole pairs. As a result, we found that the photocatalytic activity
of the Ag–TiO2 (1:25) powder was superior to that of pure TiO2 under both simulated sunlight and visible light irradiation. Furthermore, the Ag–TiO2 (1:25) also exhibits the highest photocatalytic activity for the degradation of toluene, NO and
phenol. Under the similar conditions, the degradation efficiency of 80% for toluene and 92% for NO gas-phase pollutants was achieved after 100 min of irradiation.
Fabrication of Graphene Quantum Dots Based Fluorescent Sensor for Detection of Clenbuterol
Authors: Thanh Hop Tran Thi , Hoang Mai Ha , Nguyen Phuong Hoai Nam , Thi Lan Nguyen , Thi Nhung Hac , Van Chuong Dao , Van Thu Le , Nhu Hai Luong , Ngoc Dung Ta , Dai Lam Tran , Duc Nghia Nguyen , Trinh Tung Ngo
Published: March 2017

In this work, the graphene quantum dots (GQDs) based fluorescent sensors for detection of clen-buterol (CLB) using the fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) effect were developed and characterized. In the sensors, GQDs played as donor meanwhile the conjugated molecule formed
from N-1-naphthylethylen diamine (NED) and diazonium-CLB was the acceptor. A good overlapping between the acceptor’s UV-vis spectrum and donor’s PL spectrum was observed. The CLB detection limit of the sensors was found at the CLB concentration of 10−10 g/ml. A
wide linearity relationship between the PL intensities of the sensors and the CLB concentrations in the range from 10−4 g/ml to 10−10 g/ml was observed. This report contributes to the design of GQDs based fluorescent sensor for detection of growth promoters.