Abstract: Abstract The development of bioactive, multi-functional, and cost-effective nanocomposite filaments for additive manufacturing (AM) is pivotal for the evolution of biomedical and healthcare sectors. Herein, an industrially scalable process is reported, to produce medical grade PA12/AgNP nanocomposites, through in-situ reactive melt-mixing, occurring within the filament extruder. Bactericidal elemental nanoparticles (Ag0) were formed by silver ions (Ag+) reducing from the Silver Nitrate (Ag2NO3) precursor, which was suitably added to the polymer melt. Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) was deployed in the compound melt, as a reducing macromolecular agent. The produced nanocomposite filaments were utilized to fabricate samples with Material Extrusion (MEX) AM. A total of sixteen (16) different tests were conducted on filaments and 3D-printed samples to assess their mechanical, rheological, thermal, and antibacterial characteristics, in accordance with international standards. The nanocomposites exhibited a significant mechanical reinforcement of up to 50% compared to PA12. Additionally, the Ag-based nanocomposites demonstrated remarkable antimicrobial behavior in the presence of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) microbes. PubDate: 2023-09-21
Abstract: Abstract Cardiovascular diseases are the major cause of death universally and are major contributors to health-care cost. Enormous progress has been made to detect cardiovascular diseases but there is an immediate need for developing of rapid and early detection of cardiovascular diseases as the conventional diagnostic approach focuses on the molecular imaging and detection of CVD-associated biomarkers. To attenuate the progression of cardiovascular diseases rapid and accurate diagnostic techniques are required. Nanomaterials provides a potential platform for the development of diagnostic tools because of their promising physiochemical properties. NPs such as gold nanoparticles, quantum dots, lipids, polymeric nanoparticles can be a valuable source to target cardiovascular diseases. The successful application of nanomaterials for cardiovascular diseases needs a detailed understanding of both the disease and targeting moieties. In this review we discuss about various nano-biosensors for the detection of cardiac biomarkers, the enhancement of imaging techniques using molecular imaging and nanoparticle mediated drug delivery for cardiovascular diseases. PubDate: 2023-09-04
Abstract: Abstract The ZnO/Zeolite composite was obtained by the method of deposition of zinc oxide on the surface of hydrogen form of the faujasite-type Zeolite Y that was impregnated with a hydrolysis product of zinc acetate precursor and calcinated at 300 °C for this. The deposition of zinc oxide covering the nanoparticles of the initial Zeolite was confirmed by SEM. The zinc oxide phase of the hexagonal syngony of the wurtzite type with a content of 20 wt. % in the synthesized ZnO/Zeolite composite was proved by XRD and XRF. The BET surface, the total, and the micropore volume of the initial Zeolite decreased, and the average pore size rose as a result of ZnO deposition. The centers with pKa = 9.45 which were OH− groups attached to the edge regions of the surface doubled after zinc oxide deposition on the Zeolite since ZnO nanoparticles tended to interact with the water molecule. That was the very reason for the advanced photocatalytic activity of ZnO/Zeolite composite toward the anionic dye. Congo red dye (8.0, 25.0, and 50.0 mg/L) was decolorized completely for only 1 min, but methylene blue dye (8.0 mg/L) decomposed incompletely even after 1 h of UV irradiation. PubDate: 2023-09-04
Abstract: Abstract Investigation of variations in rheological, acoustical and electrical properties of an eco-friendly nanofluids could be a substitute for a coolant/lubricant, in industry 4.0. Researchers in the past two decades have shown a greater interest in exploring the experiential changes of nanofluid based on volume fraction, and temperature suitable for a desired application. The present study observes, the influences of volume fractions of CuO nanoparticles in enriched coconut oil (CO) blended with Moringa oleifera seed oil (MOSO) (3:1). The surface morphology of CuO nanoparticles shows the average particle sizes are in between 11 nm and 70 nm. The X-ray diffraction showed a monoclinic structure without impurities which having crystallite size of 23 nm. Physical properties such as viscosity, shear rate, shear stress, torque and density were observed for the stable nanofluid at three different volume fractions (φ = 0.4, 0.8, and 1.0). The viscosity of the prepared nanofluid was enhanced to 22.1% at φ = 1. Acoustical behaviour was probed to estimate the decrease in ultrasonic wave transmission through nanofluid with upsurge in φ and a novel model equation (with R2 = 0.983) was developed. As an additional application, the defects in machines can be validated with an aid of ultrasonic velocity. The response of dielectric constant (DC) with φ and sustainability is in the range of 2.65–3 at 90 °C supports the usage of nanofluids in energy storage system and a replacement of transformer oil. PubDate: 2023-09-02
Abstract: Abstract One of the decisive factors that determines the effectiveness of using carbon nanotubes (CNTs) for reinforcing polymer matrices is their uniform distribution in the matrix. It is shown that the percolation threshold in the polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE)–CNTs system, determined by electrical conductivity data, shifts to lower values with a more uniform distribution of CNTs, while the electrical conductivity increases and correlates with the structure and strength characteristics. Preliminary deagglomeration of CNTs was carried out using ultrasonic treatment in a dispersion of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs). Three water systems with a CNTs content of 0.5, 0.25, and 0.125 wt.% were dispersed. The GNPs content was 0.1 mass fractions to 1 mass fractions of CNTs for all systems. The dependences of the real (εʹ) and imaginary (εʺ) components of the complex dielectric constant, electrical conductivity (σ) and relative bending strength limit on the volume content of CNTs (ϕ) were found, which have a percolation character. Percolation indices were determined for the dependences σ = f (ϕ), which for the specified concentrations were: flow thresholds (ϕc) − 0.0047, 0.0032, 0.00097 and critical indices (t) − 2.01, 1.78, 1.75, respectively. The most uniform distribution of CNTs, which was achieved at the minimum content of CNTs during dispersion (0.125 wt.% CNTs), corresponds to the maximum value of σ, the lowest percolation threshold, which correlates with the maximum bending strength limit. PubDate: 2023-09-01
Abstract: Abstract Antibiotic residue and toxic heavy metals in aquaculture have a hazardous impact on human health and environmental safety. So the biggest challenge is designing a powerful detecting tool without harming fisheries and the environment. A novel dual-function silver/graphene quantum dots (Ag@GQDs)-based fluorescence nanosensor was developed to investigate unprecedented sensing strategies for sensitive and selective detection of antibiotics and heavy metals to ensure that they are present in the authorized percentage. Here, the fluorescence nanocomposites achieve a new successful sensitive and rapid detection for Oxytetracycline (OTC) and Erythromycin (ERY) antibiotics with detection limits of 2.714 nM and 3.306 nM, respectively. The proposed strategy provides an efficient detection way of tracing heavy metals Hg, Cd, and Pb with a detection limit of less than 5 ppm. Characterization of nanoprobe was by UV/VIS spectroscopy, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The compared results were with graphene quantum dots (GQDs), graphene oxide quantum dots (GOQDs), and green synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) which were made from new extracts of aquatic plants and seaweeds from Edku and Marriott Lake. This novel Fluorescence quenching-based technique is sensitive, selective, less time-consuming and does not need expensive preparations to replace the commonly used chromatographic detecting techniques. PubDate: 2023-09-01
Abstract: Abstract The aim of this work was to determine the efficiency of iron ore pellets using as catalyst for carbon nanotubes (CNTs) growing by chemical vapor deposition (CVD). The products of methane air conversion were used as a working atmosphere and source of carbon. Our previous experimental studies and thermodynamic calculations made it possible to choose the optimal temperature of the process. The choice of a catalyst was dictated by the idea of using ready-made materials that do not require preliminary preparation. The performed studies have shown both the high efficiency of CNTs growth on iron catalysts and the high and uniform quality of the resulting product. Raman spectra confirmed the presence of CNTs with two characteristic peaks at 1310 and 1578 cm−1 corresponding to D and G modes, respectively. Obtained CNTs by CVD method are multi-walled and most likely have a curved structure. PubDate: 2023-09-01
Abstract: Abstract This study investigates the control of input energy and plasma parameters during the electric discharge erosive process for nanoparticle generation. The total energy supplied to the discharge chamber was controlled by varying the switching phase of the thyristor. Electrical parameters, including current and voltage waveforms, were analyzed to estimate the total input energy delivered to the reactor with zinc granules immersed in water. Additionally, the correlation between electrical parameters and plasma characteristics in the underwater discharge plasma with zinc vapors was examined. It was found that decreasing the switching phase increased the total input energy and influenced the electron density and emission intensity of the plasma. A decrease in switching phase within the range of 145–135 degrees resulted in better erosion of zinc material and more efficient generation of nanoparticles in the plasma. These findings contribute to the optimization of nanoparticle synthesis processes. PubDate: 2023-09-01
Abstract: Abstract Household refrigerator consumes more electrical energy compared to other appliances due to the luxury life of peoples. Meanwhile, the demand for electrical energy is increasing tremendously. Hence, attention is required to decrease the utility of electrical energy in refrigerator by improving the performance of refrigerator. Thus, in this research, an attempt has been made to improve the performance of refrigerator using nano-refrigerants. Three types of nano-refrigerants like R134a/MgO, R134a/ZrO2 and R134a/MgO/ZrO2 were prepared. The performance of refrigerator was assessed using nano-refrigerants and R134a refrigerant. Results showed that the thermal conductivities of nano-refrigerants were enhanced due to the better heat transfer ability of nano-additives. The R134a/MgO refrigerant showed the high thermal conductivity of 0.0196 W/mK. Further, the refrigeration effect and the COP of the system was increased whilst operated with nano-refrigerants. Further, the compressor input was decreased significantly due to the role of nano-additives. Furthermore, R134a/MgO refrigerant showed 12.5% greater refrigeration effect compared to R134a refrigerant and the same refrigerant exhibited the maximum COP of 3.5. Hence, the R134a/MgO refrigerant could be a suitable one for the performance improvement of household refrigerator. PubDate: 2023-09-01
Abstract: Abstract Cu-doped hematite (α-Fe2O3) nanoparticles (NPs) were recently created through a chemically (PVP) or green route using Azadirachta indica (Neem) leaves extract synthesized to examine the effects of doping on photocatalytic and antioxidant activities. Structural, optical, functional groups, morphological, and magnetic aspects of the produced NPs were analyzed using XRD, FT-IR, UV–vis, Raman, SEM, EDX, TEM, and VSM techniques. These techniques of characterization verified that the Cu2+ ions were successfully doped in α-Fe2O3 NPs. The Scherrer formula was used to determine the crystallite size of synthesized materials. For doped samples, rhombohedral phase crystallite size decreased gradually from 24 to 16 nm in the corundum structure. SEM and TEM images demonstrated the doping of Cu with spherically shaped, and particle size 9–16 nm α-Fe2O3 NPs. The band gap energy of doped α-Fe2O3 NPs, calculated from UV–visible spectroscopic investigation of synthesized samples, was 2.28 and 2.54 eV, respectively. The strong photocatalytic activity of doped hematite was supported by its narrowing band gap energy. By comparing saturation magnetization (Ms) values between chemical and green doped α-Fe2O3 NPs using VSM spectra, it is evident that doping has a substantial impact on the magnetic properties of NPs. The degradation efficiency of Congo red followed a pseudo-first-order reaction kinetic model, and a potential photocatalytic reaction mechanism was also explored. Doped hematite nanoparticles also possess significant flavonoid and phenolic characteristics, as well as high 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) based on a total reducing power potential, total antioxidant potential, and free radical-scavenging activity. Copper-doped α-Fe2O3 NPs samples made through chemical or green synthesis displayed significantly improved photocatalytic and antioxidant capabilities. PubDate: 2023-09-01
Abstract: Abstract In this study, we present a novel colorimetric method for the precise and sensitive detection of Hg ions utilizing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) produced and stabilized in an aqueous medium using Poly allyl amine hydrochloride (PAH). Nanoparticles were prepared from silver nitrate and NaBH4 along with CTAB at 26 ± 2 °C with an average size of 30.21 ± 6.5 nm. The prepared AgNPs solution exhibited yellowish brown color with a surface Plasmon peak at 420 nm. By adding Hg ions, the yellow color of the solution was transformed into a colorless suspension, and the color change was proportional to the Hg ion concentration. The presence of other metal ions had no effect on the color (sensitivity); confirming the selectivity of CTAB stabilized PAH capped AgNPs towards Hg ions. The generated probe has a 1 nM low detection limit when measured using a UV–visible spectrophotometer. The proposed approach has the potential to be utilized in real-time environments with greater precession by applying RGB values to make a revolutionary sensor using visible light imaging technique. PubDate: 2023-09-01
Abstract: Abstract The preparation of eco-friendly activated carbons (ACs) has gained significant attention due to their enhanced ability to remove a wide range of pollutants from water. Agricultural waste materials are promising precursors for the preparation of ACs due to their abundant availability and low cost. For the first time, this study is dedicated to preparing activated carbon from the useless leaves of sugar beet (LSB). This was conducted by thermo-chemical activation using H3PO4 as a robust activating agent. The activation process was carried out in a programmable furnace at a fixed temperature of 550 °C for 2 h. Different ratios of H3PO4 (85%) and pristine LSB (0.5:1, 1:1, 2:1, and 3:1) were used to produce four synthesized ACs, which were labeled as AC(0.5:1), AC(1:1), AC(2:1) and AC(3:1), respectively, for evaluating the impact of the impregnation ratios on the properties of these synthesized ACs. The as-synthesized ACs were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area (SBET) analysis. Among all the prepared ACs, AC(2:1) showed the highest degree of amorphicity, which resulted in the highest SBET value of 700.71 m2/g. This high surface area suggests a magnificent porous structure and surface chemistry of the synthesized AC, making it suitable for various environmental applications. The study shows that the thermo-chemical activation of sugar beet leaves with H3PO4 can produce a highly competent AC with excellent characteristics that can be used in waste management, water purification, and other related applications. Overall, this study highlights the potential of using useless LSB as a sustainable source of AC production and provides new insights into the preparation and characterization of eco-friendly ACs. PubDate: 2023-09-01
Abstract: Abstract Nanotechnology is an emerging field that is useful for various purposes. Numerous neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's disease (PD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), stroke, brain tumors, multiple sclerosis (MS), and epilepsy, are among the world's leading causes of death and disability today. Traditional treatments have not been effective in treating these disorders because they are impeded by intracellular and extracellular barriers present throughout the central nervous system (CNS). This is the main challenge that has to be conquered in order to deliver medications to the central nervous system. Nanotechnology has shown enormous potential in overcoming the hurdles associated with standard therapy techniques for these devastating neurological disorders, and it holds the prospect of revolutionary advances in their treatment. Quantum dots, polymeric nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, gold nanoparticles, liposomes, micelles, fullerenes, and microparticles are only a few examples of the many nanoscale materials that have been engineered and put to use for everything from better diagnosis to the delivery of neuro-therapeutic agents and the evaluation of treatment efficacy. These nanomaterials can get past those obstacles, zero in on a specific cell or signaling pathway, respond to the body's own cues, transport genes, and promote nerve regeneration. Effective drug delivery systems, such as these frameworks, can pave the way for the creation of therapeutic solutions for neurodegenerative disorders. The effectiveness of nanomaterial-encapsulated pharmaceuticals in curing diseases has been found to be higher than that of the bulk materials used in conventional therapy. However, there are a number of primary concerns associated with the therapeutic application of nanotechnology. These concerns stem from the fact that nanomaterials are so incredibly small, which presents a number of issues, including health risks. The main purpose of this review article is to give a clear insight into nanoparticles, along with their types and various other applications, and to give a detailed description of important neurology-related ailments that should be treated and cured using nanoparticles. PubDate: 2023-09-01
Abstract: Natural zeolite and sulfated natural zeolite catalyst materials have been successfully prepared, characterized, and applied as a replacement for the role of a sulfuric acid catalyst in the synthesis of nitrobenzene. Natural zeolites were prepared into uniform-sized powders and then refluxed with H2SO4 with varying concentrations of 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 M, proceeded by calcination with N2 gas flow (labeled as NZ, SNZ-1, SNZ-2, SNZ-3, and SNZ-4). Nitrobenzene was synthesized in a batch microwave reactor using natural zeolite and sulfated natural zeolite catalysts with the best acidity value. The results showed that the sulfuric acid treatment of natural zeolite caused changes in its physical and chemical characteristics. The NZ catalyst has an acidity value of 1.742 mmol g−1, and the 2 M concentration variation resulted in the sulfated natural zeolite with the best acidity value of 1.625 mmol g−1. The optimal amount of catalyst required is 1.0 g. Both catalysts are selective toward the nitration reaction of benzene. The average benzene conversion produced for each catalyst was 41.53 ± 3.61% and 58.92 ± 1.37%. Furthermore, the SNZ-2 catalyst has better reusability for three reaction runs. Graphical abstract PubDate: 2023-09-01
Abstract: Abstract As per the World health organization (WHO), cancer is a prominent cause of death globally before age 70. There is an unmet need for effective cancer therapeutics. Although conventional anti-cancer modalities apply to several types of cancer, there are still multiple drawbacks, such as poor bioavailability, toxic effects, and lack of selectivity in targeting cancer cells. Multiple studies have highlighted the importance of metallic nanoparticles as an anti-cancer modality due to their optical properties, biocompatibility, and ease of surface functionalization. Recently, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) have gained momentum in exploring anti-cancer properties. Green technology-assisted ZnONPs have been recognized as therapeutic agents with enhanced anti-cancer properties, an extended half-life, and lesser immunogenic properties. Hence, biosynthesized ZnONPs are currently the focus of extensive studies and evaluations for the early detection and management of cancers. However, their performance in clinical studies is yet to be determined. The current study offers a thorough overview of recent scholarly investigations pertaining to the biosynthesis of ZnONPs. This review encompasses mechanistic insights into the biological machinery involved in NP production and the most up-to-date findings on bio-templates used for biosynthesis. In addition, it provides a comprehensive idea of the in vitro and in vivo models for evaluating the anti-cancer properties of biogenic ZnONPs and the plausible mechanism of actions of the biosynthesized ZnONPs. The anti-cancer properties of biosynthesized ZnONPs may vary based on the chemical constituents of the biological source used in their synthesis. Further research is warranted to find a suitable bio-template for biosynthesizing nanoparticles with potent anti-cancer activity and their clinical translation. PubDate: 2023-09-01
Abstract: Abstract Viral infections are a constant threat to human health and economy. To understand the ways of fighting the virus, the study of the properties of these nanosized biological objects is crucial. Here, spectral-luminescent properties of double-stranded RNA from infectious pancreatic necrosis virus (IPNV) and single-stranded RNA of infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV) were studied at low temperature (78 K). It was shown that phosphorescence spectra of both viral RNA demonstrate similar tendencies, which points to similar electronic processes in both these biological polymers. Two luminescence centers were revealed in low-temperature phosphorescence spectra of viral RNA of IPNV and IHNV. The possible nature of these centers as well as the possibility of triplet excitations migration in viral RNA were discussed. PubDate: 2023-09-01
Abstract: Abstract The new polymer–mineral composite materials have been obtained by in situ immobilization of poly-[5-(p-nitrophenylazo)-8-methacryloxyquinoline] on the saponite of Tashkivsky deposit (Sap-AzoQN) and clinoptilolite of the Tushinsky deposit (Clin-AzoQN) surface. The fact of polymer immobilization on the surface of minerals by the selected method was confirmed by thermogravimetric analysis combined with mass spectrometry and IR spectroscopy. Scanning electron microscopy showed that the immobilized polymer is located on the surface of both minerals in the form of needles, located in different directions to the surface, and acicular formations. The properties of the composite materials have been determined by means of a sorption test when removing ions Pb2+, Fe3+, and Cu2+ from the model solutions in static conditions. A twofold increase in the sorption capacity of the Sap-AzoQN composite for Cu(II) and Pb(II) ions and a 5.6-fold increase in the Clin-AzoQN composite for Fe(III) ions were recorded compared to the original minerals. As a result, composite materials revealed high-efficiency sorption of heavy metals. PubDate: 2023-09-01
Abstract: Abstract In 2017, the successful production of two-dimensional (2D) square lattice structure of Tellurium and Selenium led to the discovery of novel group VI elemental 2D semi-Dirac materials. These materials possess fascinating properties, such as a thickness-dependent band gap, temperature stability, piezo-electric properties, non-linear effect, high charge mobility (electrons and holes), and solar energy conversion, that show great potential for various applications. Since electronic devices are typically used in domestic settings (at room temperature), transistors made of naturally stable Tellurene and Selenene materials are more practical and cost-effective than those made of other 2D materials. Tellurene and Selenene are characterized by their delicate nature, which makes them highly suitable for integration with current electronic devices on substrates, in contrast to other 2D materials. The Tellurene and Selenene structure possesses intriguing features that make it a prime candidate for studying its Tellurene and Selenene and understanding its properties based on its square lattice structure. The lattice dynamical properties of single-layer 2D square lattices are intriguing. Currently, we are using a PYTHON program to determine the phonon frequencies at Г points along high symmetry directions. First-order Raman spectra provide additional information about the materials’ vibrational properties. The first-order spectra arise from the two-phonon processes and can provide information about the anharmonicity and coupling between different phonon modes. Additionally, we discuss the acoustical and optical contributions to the phonon frequencies. We anticipate that the phonon frequencies along the Г‒X of Tellurene and Selenene, 2D materials, will yield results that are reasonably similar to those obtained by other researchers. PubDate: 2023-09-01
Abstract: Abstract This study highlights optimizing polyol reaction conditions to produce 100% silver nanowire (AgNW) yields (AgNWs count/all nanostructure count) using a millifluidic flow reactor (MFR). AgNWs of uniform length and diameter offer potentially low-cost, transparent, and flexible conductors. MFRs produce AgNWs with superior uniformity, yield, and concentration due to the reduced dimensions of the reaction environment. A statistical design of experiments (DoE) considering polyol reaction temperature and the three reagent concentrations optimized the process. The AgNWs are characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to calculate the yield of AgNWs per reaction. After completing the DoE, calculated yields are put into Minitab statistical software for analysis. Minitab discovered the optimal reaction conditions to be T = 170 °C, [AgNO3] = 0.177 M, [CuCl2] = 6.05 mM, and [PVP] = 0.224 M, with an R2 value of 85%. Results of the DoE were imported into supervised decision tree (DT) and random forest (RF) machine learning (ML) algorithms. The DT and RF predicted yields of AgNWs given reaction temperature and reagent concentrations with 96.9% and 97.5% accuracy, respectively. The optimal polyol reaction conditions synthesized 100% AgNW yield with average concentrations of 16 mg/mL, lengths of 32 µm (σ ± 3.5 µm), diameters of 68 nm (σ ± 12 nm), and aspect ratios of 475. PubDate: 2023-08-31
Abstract: Abstract Al, Ga and B silicate hierarchical zeolites of structural types MOR, BEA, MFI and MTW with morphology of nanorods, nanolayers or nanoparticles, due to the presence of optimal strength of Brønsted acid centers are active and highly selective catalysts for indanol dehydration in mild conditions (yield of the target product up to 99%). Ga and B silicate hierarchical zeolites with low and medium acidity show moderate yields in Beckman rearrangement of oximes. Hierarchical aluminosilicate zeolites of structural types MOR, BEA and MFI of different morphology show high activity in the process of n-hexane cracking, which allows us to consider them as promising catalysts for this reaction. Formation of the basic centers in zeolite composites with different nature and structure allows obtaining effective catalysts for the cycloaddition reactions under carbon dioxide pressure. PubDate: 2023-08-25